For example, often fire damage is water damage--they put the red stuff out with wet stuff.

If it is wet, most likely will be colder.You should contact a mold remediation company, they are not that expensive and you will cover your back by using a legal, insured, certified contractor for the removal, then you fix it.with every property you get, there will be some issues, otherwise you will pay full price, and always use a certified contractor or inspector before you jump in to a property unless you are one.https://www.nachi.org/certified-inspectors 

Is water wet?

in a perfect world, could get you 75-80% LTV but still possible depending on numerous factors including loan size... shoot me a message, more than happy to discuss this with you! 

I inquired of my banker just today to refinance numerous properties.

Jay has pointed out numerous times over the years that taking advantage of the GR was not trivial due to the difficulty of getting financing. 

To fund your investment,A Buy Direction Letter— the specific form depends on the terms of your note.If unsecured, A General Buy Direction LetterIf secured, which form you use depends on the type of collateral securing the note.The Original Promissory Note with a physical/wet signature and a list of collateral (if the note is secured)It's important that both documents are complete and accurate, otherwise this can hold up your transaction or cause trouble down the line.

I have picked up new skills including framing, painting, some plumbing, some electric, and have done numerous kitchen and bathroom renovations.

I'm looking for real estate agents and lenders to start getting my feet wet.

There are numerous steps we can take to combat this lunacy.