@Bill B.1) Home is worth $220k now, principal balance on loan is $179k.

The loan amount is $220000, and the estimated Zillow price for the home is $600k.

That's the kind of talk you'll hear from every get-rich-quick guru on the planet, kind of like "7-Minute Abs" or Hydroxycut weight-loss pills.Just look at what he promises: you don't need to use your own money, you don't need to inspect the properties, you'll spend very little time on the deal, you aren't personally liable for the loans and debt, you'll work less and earn more...This can all be true if you know what you are doing.

I looked at their fees and thought OK I would pay more for a hard money loan anyway and could use the help to get funding. here I am with a bunch of crappy consumer credit cards flying out to a house I don't even live at.

I'll be more selective and avoid renting to those with emerging credit or uncertain financial situations.

We're certainly seeing a very high demand on the investor side for loans in the area.

There are a lot of programs available to help with renovation costs being built into the loan on a primary residence purchase.  

Home in question: https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/120-Ramon-Cardenas-Dr-Del...Background:I'm closing on a 4-plex in a couple weeks that I will owner-occupy. 471500 purchase price using 0% down VA loan.

I say hopefully because many of these payments are reduced or altogether eliminated by any amounts owed by the beneficiary to other government agencies, such as income taxes, loans, etc.Bottom line is that this is a business, requiring all the skills and assets and expenses necessary for all businesses.

Check out ways to pay, like loans, talking with money lenders, or teaming up with others.