If your goal is flipping esp, this is what the program is centered around (but all the other exit strategies as well). 

It took about 2 years and I built a thriving STR business as well as buying and selling houses. 

I'm well versed in both so let me know if I can ever help you. 

These 2 ways will normally cost you the least in upfront costs, and some will finance the rehab costs as well.2.

I found a duplex that currently cash flows very well even with today's rates. 

If I'm in your shoes, I would use this as an opportunity to network with other brokers in the office as well as attend local meetups to get a feel for who the movers and shakers are. 

You'll want a great team in place that can - work efficiently and in a timely manner considering your loan time frame- communicates very well as you are remote and not at the place- priced well.

Crosby as well (from what I have read).Prices are still quite high so you have to buy right and in the right area in order to stay profitable.

Happy to chat about BRRRRs with you but I would also suggest looking into house hacking as well. 

Looking at my first property and there is a severely intense odor in the basement (concrete) and some slight orders on the other levels of the house as well (hardwood floors and carpet).