Time management will definitely play a pivotal role in the beginning stages in terms of understanding the market now, where it's going, and how to market myself and the products.

I would start with the BP bookstore, There are some great reads on the page across all areas of REI.Personally Rich Dad Poor Dad is my favorite, setting the stage for any investor to get in the right mindset.

You're in the early stages so I'd continue to research both options and connect with folks who have successfully done what you're looking to do. 

Cool, not yet and if they did I probably would not be here today as that would be in the multi millions at this stage. 

Usually who are in the early stages are more focused on the cash flow but it all depends on the deal at the end of the day.

Do the deferred maintenance in stages. 

Really, at my beginning stages I couldn’t put enough down(not more than 20%) to make the deal cash flow.

I'm in early planning stages now, but since I'm new to MFH and the Worcester market, I would love to connect and chat a bit.

@Glenn Cornell is the Homepath house out of the first look stage?

Not so much because of the risk of losing the $ - more so because you've lost your leverage to get the GC moving and keep the early stages of the project in motion.