You are right to avoid a slow site builder like Wix or Squarespace.Read more in the article "How to increase website conversion up to 100 times"I recommend using TypeSetterCMS for REI website:The slogan of TypeSetterCMS  is "The Faster and Easier CMS".

Any loan officer worth their weight will be able to access a rapid re score type of program, where you can prove out payoffs or pay downs and you can get a quick bump on your score. 

Make sure there is no exclusions based on breed, weight, etc. 

I don't want to get distracted by what seems like the "right thing to do", when I could be making much more and building my career in real estate faster.

If everything goes right, the HML has less headaches and probably cheaper and faster reno execution. 

I managed to get in touch with an owner who just closed with someone faster - I was a bit deflated, but was still pretty energized with the news.

In addition, the individual lending you money also makes a great return on their money and does so much faster than traditional methods all while being secured by real assets.

I feel like this technique has really helped me get through more books faster and allows me to manifest the information in 2 different contexts.

My other option is to get a HELOC, which I've been told is a much faster process plus no appraisal.

Learning from the trades will make your estimating faster and more accurate and when you hire your own contractors you can dictate to them a fair price instead of the other way around.It is also a great idea to start by getting a job and saving money for your first project.