I'm signed up with over 20 sites including FCI to purchase NPNs in MN only and none of them have the notes for sale in MN (except 1 in central MN that is overpriced by 50k)

VA loans are only for owner occupants, with a few exceptions for active duty folks deploying etc. 

I would not be vacating my primary residence anymore for another.. would this be exceptable?

If you've gotten a referral keep digging until you talk to actual clients.My guess is that you're just about skittish enough that nothing except an office with a receptionist offering you a Keurig is going to ease your jitters.  

You mentioned several neighborhoods - and they all seem to be similar markets; except Chestnut Hill.

All of these renovations costed about $22K since I did the work myself with the help of some talented family members (except for HVAC).

When you write a check, it can be immediately cashed, regardless of the date on it (exceptions can include payroll checks).Cite: https://www.quickenloans.com/blog/postdate-checks

There are some exceptions if you are a us citizen and live elsewhere but you have to qualify.

I quit my job as well before I did my first flip so I didn't have any option except to succeed.

We have however [had several people want to do deals with us, but so far, for the most part haven't partnered, except once with another BP member in a very creative way (I'll share more on that another time) I guess what I'm saying is "what goes around, comes around".