Your friend had a simple solution to the problem in front of him that could have been solved in 5 minutes, made himself $60k and served the interest of his client.  

I tried R.E. investing before but didn't have enough knowledge to sustain it effectively.  

I am not suggesting doing this for the roof but two ways to convert insoluble iron oxide( rust ) to a soluble form that is removed with a water rinse is to use either oxalic acid ( 5% solution on the rust for about 30 minutes( can wet towels so it adheres and does not run off) in water or a commercial product called "Iron Out" which is sodium hydrosulfide I think.

The solution is simple.

If traditional banking proves difficult then you could look at hard money lenders, although that would result in a higher mortgage then you may be able to sustain.

@Casey Kooiman My plumber told me that Palmer valves are an old-style Milwaukee drainage solution.

From there, I started wholesaling and marketing creative real estate solutions to property owners.

If you were a listing agent you would have done far more than 1 deal and have a career that is sustainable. 

We want to be able to sustain as a business model doing a few properties at the same time without too much hammer swinging. 

Craig, the usual:Close on the date of your choiceAll CashWe pay closing costsSell the benefits not the features of calling you.A great book-"The direct mail solution" by Craig simpson.My Tips from the book below: Hope this helps my man.