What you want to do is combine pieces of both of your options together. 

As I explore different property types and investment strategies, how did you determine which path to focus on initially?

The plan is to create an Excel sheet where I could plug the basics into a formula and it would give me a side-by-side view of how the investment looks with each fund option. 

Most do, but there are some options out there and they will look fairly similar to conventional. 

I have a buddy that is in mortgage but unfortunately we are not able to secure deals with his company because most buyers have better financing or cash options and this is taking me out of the game.

@Rebecca Schnur I think you're right to carefully consider your options with Stessa, especially given the importance of security in online financial transactions.

Now that I am older and have more options I recently started learning about real estate on youtube and it led me here, BiggerPockets.

I prefer to utilize a broker lender because they generally have access to more unique loans, however I do know some BANKS or credit unions have inhouse portfolio programs available that don't exactly follow fed guidelines, which may also be good options. 

Secure funding for your flip through options like hard money loans, private investors, or leveraging your home's equity with a HELOC.

I'm a Realtor® that works primarily all over Central Florida and help investors like yourself buy properties that really help broaden your portfolio and/or create new opportunities for you to explore.