Try to find a transactional lender.  

I just bought a house in los angles and can only afford the mortgage if I get roommates.

2) Our lender does not require a Phase 1 assessment.

I am looking to pay cash on distressed properties and to do the BRRRR method.I have a team in place but would be very interested in connecting with fellow investors, contractors, lenders, pretty much anyone who touches Birmingham real estate.Thanks so much, John

Can I find a lender to refinance an investment property that is fully paid off?. 

If you are financing this is a good benchmark in my opinion as a lender for my whole career.

I currently have a mortgage of $25,000 on the property, the property value is around $220,000 to $240,000.

We are hoping to retire to this home in 2-10 years and figured we'd buy why rates are cheap and let someone else pay the mortgage for awhile.

Hard money lenders are also going to verify the rehab budget and ARV - so having them vet your deal and put another set of eyes on it will be beneficial to you. 

It makes it difficult to do simple maintenance, repairs, cleaning, etc.If you don't have a ton of reserves, I always think it's a good rule of thumb to have between 4-6 months mortgage in savings as you're trying to figure out a rhythm.