Specifically wondering if they award the FMR listed on the HUD site, if there is an abundant applicant pool, and if the housing authority is responsive. 

If you are single or your spouse is on board with house hacking I would suggest buying a 2-4 unit!

Any suggestions on staying focused day to day in the investor mindset? 

The reason Lifestyles suggest these companies is not because they do the most mortgages it's for other reasons like kickbacks and favors.

I know the SLC/Utah market has blown up since COVID and may even be considered overpriced at the moment but just wanted to hop on here and see if anyone has any suggestions on areas that would make sense?

I think if a contractor 'suggest' to skip permit then I would stay away. 

:) G'Day Zair,Just commented the same to another fellow looking to do something similar to what you are.I think that BRRRR from out of state is very risky business.If I was you, I'd continue immersing myself in everything and anything real estate related.Come back home to the US and start in your local market.Using leverage should only be reserved once you already know what you are doing and you have experienced the income/expenses over a few year period.I've always believe that "Cash is King, Cashflow is Queen and Finance is the Peasant" lolIn your local market or a market of your choosing you can buy, fix and flip or buy, fix and refinance.But I suggest you buy, fix and flip until you have enough cash reserves to buy, fix and hold without it affecting your cash position for future deals.Build a strong foundation without leverage and only then start looking to refinance or finance.30-50% of your portfolio should be un-leveraged.It's a slow process but all good things take time.Just my opinion and wishing you much success

Do you have any suggestions?

I was wondering if anyone has any great attorneys that specialize in creative financing such an agreement of sale, letter of intents, promissory notes, etc.?

I would suggest that you rent the property and consider using a property manager who can finance the improvements for you up front and be repaid out of the rent so you can have passive rental income over the long run.