I would suggest the first thing to do is get connected to a lender that can fund your projects across the country so you know you are pre approved and have no delays in the purchase process.

I'd like to get a few properties in my portfolio, continue to network and learn the game and then transition into finding, funding, rehabbing and closing my own deals. 

Alternatively, if the bank ( assuming there is a bank) is fine with it, you could negotiate a credit and escrow the funds to be released after you do it yourself.  

I requested my funds back and they just sent pictures of their no refund policy.I tried watching their tutorials to learn the program but none of the buttons existed that were described in the tutorials.

Disclosure: Previous, current and future purchaser of Matt Scott's services.I have personally used Matt Scott and Incite Venture Capital to create my fixed income fund.

There's also a major university there, Ken Griffin just moved Citadel hedge fund down there, and the technology entrepreneurial landscape is opening up as well.

we did the first 3 in a 18 month period we used internal funds so no debt.. these were 350k to 400k all in projects.. so U need cash to be a spec builder or you need investors if you dont have cash..

We have actually been accepted to the Remote Shoals program to receive funds to relocate to The Shoals area.

Almost every reputable lender is going to have a draw process for any lender funded rehab portion. 

Hopefully in just a few years the cash flow can help fund your Primary rehab and enlargement.