The faster you figure out how to get a different contractor to finish the project, the better things will go.

Numbers show 2 units appreciate higher and faster than 3 and 4 units.

Since DSCR loans are now a thing, I think it makes more sense to get a 1099 job and scale your income faster. 

Any seller would be incentivized to offer a buyer commission (unless they're in a. tough financial position) because otherwise their neighbor's house will sell faster than theirs. 

In my eyes, it's fair as even though I'm fronting the capital, the split in equity is worth it as it gives me more time to run my other business, plus we can do things faster with two of us, plus at this point of my REI journey, I don't have the skills/experience (yet) that he does with the construction side and for him, he values not having to manage the finances.  

Do you have any recommendations on how to continue to work the next deals in this situation, or do I just have to build the fire slowly and let the cash flow and equity increase to bankroll deals next year and the year after?

Source: FHFA House Price IndexInflation protection: The only way to maintain your purchasing power and living standard is if your rents increase faster than inflation.

Faster Turnaround : Depending on how much work needs to be done, the project could be finished quickly, allowing for a faster return on investment.3.

The faster you put your money back to work, the more it will compound and the higher your annualized return will be. 

Better areas with appreciation are where wealth will increase more and faster.