I have connections with businessmen from NYC “whom are always looking to invest” (private money lenders).

@Jared Gore - If you put your own money into the deal or private lender money into the deal you should always have a plan (prior to purchase) to get that money back out. 

I feel like I have sufficient funds @100k and a network of private money lenders ready but since nothing can cash flow around these areas, is the only strategy flipping?

I have a great credit and depending on what route of investment I take, my DTI ratio is good, not super great but good for anything up to $200k.Top view goal: Purchasing a duplex close to $200k or SFH close or less than $150k.Financing strategy: Option A - For the next SFH property using HELOC for rehab and private lending to buy from two relatives/friends.

Unless you’re getting creative or using private financing, I don’t know of a lender that will allow less than 20% if you’re not living there.

Single family just won't get you there, unless you have money partners (equity partners or private money lenders... but be cautious of hard-money lenders with those rates). 

Private money lenders I've spoken to so far only do short term (1-3 years) financing for anything above 4 units. 

When you refinance a home at 70%-ish LTV of ARV after repairs/updates and its rented does the lender just give you cash in the form of a check or direct deposit into your account that you then are responsible to use to pay off your hard money lender, private lender, or to just get your own cash back? 

Newer investors that don't have a track record will offer up an equity position in order to attract private money.

Plus my father who is 51 would have the added benefit of having these two properties paid off by the time he's in his mid 60's, probably about the time he will be retiring.My Father is basically my "Private Investor" so to speak because he has cash and I have more time and energy to put into the ins and outs of finding deals and dealing with tenants.