They base their decision largely on "the deal" and your ability to execute the plan.

If you don't have a big enough asset base yet, wait until you do.

there is literally no way this would only cost 16-20k to fix LOL. wishful thinking. i would call this a full gut based on the pics and use $65/sqft for guts (even that is sometimes not enough but it's a place to start). so if this property is 1,000 square feet, we're looking at a $65,000 reno give or take. what did your contractor say it would cost?

My wife and I are based in Florida and work as non-profit business consultants.

I've looked at First American/Data Tree and a couple of others but they seem pricey especially considering the search and records limitations on the base plans. 

Based in Atlanta, Georgia, I've dedicated over a decade to transforming the real estate sector, leveraging my expertise to not just predict market trends but to create them.Why I'm Here:To share insights, forge lasting partnerships, and drive a paradigm shift in how we approach real estate investing.

This is based on the true value of what the cash/cost in the property (DP, Cash Flow and equity) is buying in property value.This is an example of the compounding effect Albert Einstein referred to as "the greatest invention of the 20th century". 

Working with a good investor-friendly realtor would be helpful, but always keeping an eye open and looking for alternative lead streams never hurts as well.I hope that helps, but having contractors that you trust and being ready to move when the deal comes up should put you in good shape going into the spring.Good luck!

I own a local short term rental property management company based out of the Jersey Shore.

Alternatively, if you want to connect I'm also a licensed agent for ERA Live Moore, seasoned investor, and have access to off market listings that might fit the bill for a first multi-family / house hack investment property.