I'm wondering if anyone can provide references for a reliable handyman who is available for emergency calls as well future work in general.

You may also consider looking for lease with option to own opportunities, for the same reason; lower your down payment- then use the leasing period to build up what you need to exercise the option to purchase. 

You don't buy a house sub2 if you don't have sufficient capital to make payments if something happens to your renter/buyer.  

Some clients only want the value add stuff with a higher return and some want move in ready with a lower return but the ability to preserve their capital for a down payment on the next one. 

There are still areas where you can buy units for $200k/ door but they require a lot of work usually and covering all operating expenses and interest payments can be challenging base on low-ish rent levels in some places.

Congrats on taking the first step, usually people get hung up on only one strategy, and the best way to start your real estate investing journey is house hacking with lower down payments and interest rate since it is a new primary residence, especially since you can probably rent out your primary and cash flow when you move out.I'm a local investor and realtor here in Denver metro, and I've found success with house hacking here in Denver for myself (rent by room, Airbnb, Section 8, LTRs, etc) along with my clients too.

Can I refi a bond for deed or will I have to start over and put another large down payment down?

Larry, If I’m following your math, you need to find a way to increase your income outside of the rental property to cover the mortgage+heloc $1500 payment.

Along with the FHA loan, check out the loan from the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA).NACA was formed in 1988 and provides an affordable option for potential first-time buyers:✅ No down payment✅ No closing costs or fees✅ No mortgage insurance✅ No consideration of credit score✅ Below market fixed interest rateThere are several requirements to be eligible, starting with attending one of their workshops.https://www.naca.comI wish you all the best.

If it were me, I would contact the caseworker and explain that you want to terminate their lease for non-payment of rent and other lease violations.