It's not like in the private sector where someone decides to get a new office, and goes and rents one. 

I first went to the wrong lender in the beginning and it caused a lot of stress Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

It seems like a hard money lender typically a private individual or venture firm) would be the only route to go since they are a little more lax on lending requirements than a conventional lender.

Lenders also loved them because there was growing cash flow from the rentals to provide more lendability.

Quote from @Carlos Ptriawan: I have very strong opinions about politics and how they impact private property rights, the family, education, small businesses, and a thousand other topics.

Once you know what to look for in terms of an investment in your market then you can start speaking with lenders about using that 20k to determine what you can afford and then move into actually narrowing down properties and making offers!

Don't hesitate to send me a private message, as the forums aren't meant for private conversations.

Be patient when building- nothing is ever on time Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Has anyone found a company as such that would lender on renovation projects? 

Those who choose to utilize the benefits of private money know that there are multiple ways to repay their interest only loans.