If I already have some properties under my belt and they are cash flowing, I'll be much more willing to save time by using paid tools etc.

If you are able to sell I'd say sell, if it's not looking like that's going to happen then try to get it on a long term loan with renters so you can save on your monthly payment, then get the equity back out and move onto something else!

I still have that house and it rents for a grand these days. my first house was late 70s that I bought  in those days it was 80 10 and 10  you need 10% cash and normally a private HML would give you the 10% second and bank was the first.. interest on the first was 9% second was 15%.. this was before the Carter interest rate run up.. paid 80k for it in Milpitas CA.. and it was brand new bought it from Shapel . 

A great team can save you so much time and hassle.   

We use private investors and offer them 20% APR, with 10% return guaranteed, paid as a balloon. 

Saving $10 to miss out on proper data that leads you to a $40k deal is not worth it. 

It's about saving yourselves people. 

Depending on your income needs, pulling equity out and lending privately combined with a fulltime or part time job may be another option that doesnt bring as much boom or bust risk as flipping. 

Most out of state investors are better off just acting as private lenders, buying low cost index funds or keeping their money in HYSAs.

Another option would be working with private lenders to see if they're open to your idea should you need additional funding.