Depending on your situation, best way in is to house hack a duplex or SFR with an AirBnB angle (present craziness aside).In terms of next steps, get yourself an underwriting template and practice evaluating deals you see on the MLS.  

It was managed by a property management company that took a very hands-off approach and let the work being done be subpar and with the owners not being local they did not have a clue the condition the property was in. I

I know this NEW COVID-19 world we live in is changing the landscape.. hopefully you get the project completed and tenant paying rent sooner than later. 

Has anyone been in this situation or has experience with a similar scenario who could weigh in? I

Is there a way to refinance both of them into one loan that is not a VA loan so that I can have my full entitlement to purchase a house in the state I'm currently in?I

Defintely a different time we are living in. I

If I sell now, the plan would be to use the 160k to purchase 5 or so properties and a discount once the inevitable foreclosures start rolling in.  I

It depends on the individual, their reputation, professionalism and verifiable track record of success in the business they are currently in. I

I believe that @Brandon Turner utilized a partner to get his first deal so, they're not bad footsteps to walk in!  I

@Jennifer T.Yes bringing a contractor in is a good idea, but there not going to waste there time looking at many properties without you pulling the trigger.