So if they are earning 5% interest on their loans, then 1.5% of that should be withheld and paid to the IRS, giving the lender a net interest rate of 3.5%.

@Jesse GrimUsing a hard money lender (HML) could potentially speed up the process of accessing funds for your fix and flip projects, but it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

Everywhere you have to work, to spend your time first to earn money, then to earn big money, then to keep money and after all to reinvest and not to lose.

Whether it's financing, finding the right property, understanding the market, overthinking the process, or something else, I am interested to hear your experiences and challenges.

Also my team is hosting an investor class next wednesday over the flipping process.

I am going through the pre licensing courses/ process now.My rough plan, as of current, is to begin flipping homes in desirable residential areas nearby and then move to flipping in the mountain/vacation setting.

Along with negotiating the feasibility period and due diligence periods I'd concurrently do 2 things based on your plan:1. talk to the solar companies in the area and understand their site selection process, how they structure their deals, how they operate, etc. 2. talk to the power company and see if they need more renewable energy and if building another solar project in that area makes sense. 

I'm in the process of looking for a property for a STR and property management groups and Realtors make it so hard for people interested in the property.

If you are planning on living in the property as your primary, you can request to terminate the lease as you will be taking possession for owner occupy, but confirm with a local real estate attorney on the specific verbiage and process as it varies by state. 

Consider how that might effect the future sale of a property.The real estate agent or broker who is helping you buy a multi-family property should understand the pros and cons and help guide you through the process of where your money is best spent regarding washers/dryers.