It's the initial qualification to get the construction loan that is hindering me from starting. 

The property itself that you are investing in generates a separate income from that generated by your cash. 

Under delayed financing exception you can cash out what you spend initially to purchase the property or 70% of current appraisal value which ever is less.

Maybe now is the time to really ramp that side of things up to generate commissions ? 

I've been hesitant to run my credit for anything to say the least, considering that I've had to take a 500 beginning score to a 700+ score in less than two years with no history.I initially started with my primary bank.

In that way, you have the ability to generate real estate returns that are tax-deferred or tax free depending on the account type that you use.

Our initial goal was to move back up here by purchasing a duplex, live in one side and rent out the other side (house hack)I have been in contact with a couple of guys that I know who are wholesalers, however, I’ve never felt like they’ve tried very hard to be honest (I could be wrong).

You can refinance immediately with no seasoning using the current appraised value however you are limited to 75% (not 70% as alluded here) and the total new loan cant exceed your initial acquisition + closing costs.

You don't have to wait because spend cash initially.  

Hotel even in San Juan are mostly on generator so no elevator service.