I would focus on improving your credit and obtaining a more stable income so that conventional financing is an option. 

., barns, stables)FHA 203(k)Minimum Down Payment: 3.5%Minimum Credit Score: 620Minimum Loan Amount: $50,000Maximum Loan Amount: $524,225Occupancy Types: Primary Residence ONLYUnit Maximum: 4 UnitsAcceptable Renovations:-Structural Improvements/Reconstruction (e.g., adding rooms, bathrooms)-Cosmetic Enhancements-Eliminate Health and Safety Hazards-Energy Efficiency Improvements-Major Landscaping (e.g., grading, tree removal, adding walkways)Non-Acceptable Renovations:-Luxury Items-Commercial Use-Temporary Structures-Non-Residential BuildingsBoth of these renovation loans are similar in many ways, but the key differences are:1.

Overall goal being to retire in the home in 10-15 years.  

A mid-term rental could be an great option during the 6-7 months you're away since it appeals to traveling professionals, remote workers, or individuals relocating and offers stable income without the constant turnover of short-term rentals.

Quote from @Denise Lang: Hello everyone,my wife and I want to start our real estate investing journey to boost our wealth and retirement fund.

It’s stable cashflow and long term appreciation and tons of accelerated bonus depreciation on taxes. like most anything in real estate it’s a long term play. 

While I’m more financially stable, that hasn’t translated into feeling more secure—I simply take bigger risks now.That said, I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished.

I am expecting to do 3-4 deals per year until I get to 20 properties or so and then snowball the debt so they are all paid off by retirement. 

Upon contacting Rent to Retirement, we were told by the rep that Delta "cut off" communication with Rent to Retirement and if we choose to continue with Delta Build, we will have to resolve issues with them ourselves as Rent to Retirement can no longer speak on our behalf.

@Eddie Lozada check out Rent to Retirement.