I do however, have full availability on my HELOC, various credit cards that are offering me 0% balance transfer checks for up to 12 months, and various retirement funds (Roth IRA, traditional 401k, etc.)I'm already a homeowner in SoCal, but I want to buy my first LTR SFR someplace like Cleveland since the price point is attractive.

The right wholesaler that knows how to properly calculate a SOW (scope of work) to gain the rehab budget, generate an ARV from local comps and not want to get rich on every deal is NOT easy to find....but, they do exist.

But just trying to see if there are better ideas then taking traditional way around.

I’m considering traditional lenders, but open to creative options.If I were to bring on an equity partner, what’s a fair and motivating structure for both sides?

Still retired from a traditional W2 job, but working harder than ever! 

I'm super happy with BP as a great resource for more traditional real estate, but I'd like to do some exploration into land hacking as well.

If you are seeking a more traditional DSCR type loan, then typical guidelines apply; Credit, Liquidity, and Experience. 

We have rented to some first-timers, but even most of them were older, less traditional students.

Roth or traditional or combination.  

Hard money lenders, traditional lenders, private money lenders...