I also won't close until all repairs are done; I don't trust the whole "put the money for repairs in escrow upon close".And good call cutting ties with MW instead of trying to exit the deal with his promise of a profit.

So that means you cut a check to someone...ALL IN ADVANCE.  

You are cutting corners thus your having items break. 

It also cuts out additional closing costs.

I have a few lenders who will straight up tell me they don't care about credit or income... all they care about is how much equity does the borrower retain (skin in the game). 

October was the start to the cut off dates and some of these homeowners do not have the means to start paying a higher payment.

Did you work while you got started or go straight into full time investing?

Because of the deal, I think we could make it work but would like to cut out the hard money lender.

I learned to treage and cut that scenario off from thought.- I also learned I hate active businesses;  anything commercial, airbnb ish, etc. 

@Matthew Crivelli if we buy the property, there’s closing cost and holding cost which cut into profits unnecessarily IMO.