For example, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) might offer a more flexible solution to fund the repair without the commitment of a second mortgage.

Much easier to delude one self into purchasing a "mentorship" program for $30,000 or more ("put it on your credit card; you'll make it back on your first deal so it really won't cost you anything") and believing that after a "3 day boot camp" you'll be able to compete successfully with people who have the education, knowledge, experience and track record and have been doing it for years.  

He is the executor on the account and his real estate license is up on this and I have messages from him that would jeopardize his license but I don’t want to go that route if I don’t have to.

I’m here to learn while I build cash reserves and attempt to make my credit as attractive as possible.

Huge tourist presence, but the population on the books is around 6,000 and its a no go at the zip code to most...Typically, your best best in rural areas is going to local banks or credit unions. 

Along the way, I've been diligently saving and building my credit with the dream of owning my first property.

Hey Collin, Can your current lender offer you a lender credit, to be as competitive? 

Upon default, our deed of trust specifically allows us to require the borrower to prepay into an account to cover insurance, taxes, or any other unpaid obligations.

We would just need to verify you have a decent credit score and the rents can cover the total mortgage payment at that loan amount. 

Once that is completed, then run the credit for those that meet the first round of criteria.You can double check but I have not heard you have to prioritize a Section 8 tenant, you just can't reject them because of source of income.