You talk to a mortgage broker who has access to hundreds of lenders.

You have free access to any real estate subject you could imagine. 

You will want to identify a commercial lender that will allow you to refi without “seasoning” the property “waiting” 12-24 months.I use a small local bank in my area and they do not require any seasoning so it works out great on quick cosmetic deals.

Networking is an easy-to-access bonus, both inside and outside of Real Estate with a lot of folks that truly just want to help each other grow.From a local level, we are conveniently positioned between the arguably two most important spots (per the Iowa natives): Ames and Iowa City. 

Thinking about the commercial property I bought 6 months ago and how no matter what I can't seem to get it leased out and I'm realizing I'm never going to be a good commercial investor and I need to stick to single family houses

If they have no skin in the game other than labor, they will not be there in the event of a loss-Reality is most contractors would just rather have the money and do not have a system in place to wait for the big prize at the endThe best way to handle the contractor relationship is to treat them well, pay on time and be accessible when needed. 

@Jeremi Singletary thanks... yes I checked the MLS, the most recent similar sold properties are from Jan and Feb 2017.I was also thinking of using rents (via gross multiplier method), but wasn’t sure how accurate that would be on a non-commercial property (duplex)ThanksErik

We drove out to the property which was very secluded, way off the beaten path, after a recent snow required 4 wheel drive to access. 

Best advice is Not all foreclosures sell for a good deal, and most will not qualify for traditional financing, so if you are serious about buying an REO make sure you either have cash, construction financing, or commercial type loan at your disposal.

Ranging from rental multi-family homes as well as commercial properties.