House hacking usually provides returns above and beyond any other asset class and is a great low risk way to get started.

Quote from @Greg O'Brien: @Harold Cherrix theres a long thread with hundreds of posts in the Financial forum! 

His passion for helping others achieve financial freedom through real estate is truly inspiring.

But I'm trying to forecast the financials further and looking at the valuation after I get it turned over. 

If you do go with the selling route, I'd recommend going "sold as is" or build you asking taking in consideration of the repairs needed. another option depending on financial situation consider financing the repairs?

This really depends on your financial situation.

Are there specific lenders or financial institutions that you recommend for beginners?

Then be notarized and wire the funds, they don't table fund even in those states...Seller cannot be late in past 12 months or in default or in a modification or any other troubled asset review department like bankruptcy.FHA's are mostly assumable, VA is but VERY tricky as it isn't good for the veteran - they lose a percentage of eligibility.Servicers do not have loan officers to help you, they don't get paid on assumptions.

Both of us work full time jobs and are looking for financial freedom.

Like some Guru's say you dont need hundreds of units in some expensive markets like ours in the PNW you only need a few free and clear SFR's (build multiple ADU's) or MFR's (or low leverage/free clear close to) in order to reach your financial freedom metrics.There are local lenders who can give you options even past 10+ fannie/freddie products not just relying on private capital from DSCR or non QM products (these are an option too) however there are pros and cons.Id say the benefits of the DSCR product line is that some of them can go up to 25+ financed properties while some DSCR lenders can only go 4-10 or 15 tops.