Please note that you are obligated to pay back their 401k (regardless of the performance of your real estate investment).As an alternative to taking the loan, you could even purchase the investment property directly using funds in your Solo 401k (assuming you select a Solo 401k plan provider which allows you to invest in real estate).

Is it possible to have a second mortgage that could potentially be $0 or alternatively $15k depending on a resale price? 

I was just at a conference this weekend and the subject of wholesaling came up and specifically how ineffective direct mail is these days unless you have Major dollars to throw at it.. much of the discussions were alternatives. 

@Amber KennonYou and your father should first consult with an agent who can give you a fair assessment of the value of the property.A lot of people may be reaching out to your father with offers but you won't know if they are good offers without knowing the true value.Seller financing is one option for your dad - He can sell the property and instead of dealing with tenant issues(which it seems like he does) he can instead collect a payment on a monthly basis from the ultimate buyer.He can negotiate an interest rate with the buyer which can help him into his retirement.The other alternative is that he continues to live there and you inherit the property from him.

Would this be a good alternative to ceramic and still keep the value added to the property?

Alternatively we will just continue to slowly DIY the renovations ourselves, but I feel like it is tying up our cash and time!

Buyers place values on income streams based on all kinds of stuff (alternatives, interest rates, money supply, economic conditions, confidence, risk, location, supply, asset type, upside potential, demographics).

I wanted to hear the community's thoughts on alternative financing on investment properties. 

Late to the thread and not sure if this was covered.CAP rates are tied to the alternatives.

This as well as online payments are a fantastic alternative to cash, money orders, and checks, especially if it keeps you from picking up rent in person!