My mother has a 2005 townhome and the builder used metal rod holders and heavy metal rods...look like galvanized fence posts.

Holders of long-term debt instruments (i.e.

What visa status did you have and were you based in the U.S or did you do this from afar? 

There was a main house of 3 bedrooms 1 bath, a detached garage and then a structure in the back that had two small J1 Visa type housing units.

We've had two properties listed with our counties housing program for months now, however they advised that they have no voucher holders looking for placement.

I have not heard of them before; it could be a local lender. however, make sure you ask for references for past clients who have closed with a similar scenario as yours. not all lenders work with ITIN holders and Foreign Nationals, if you need a referral let me know. 

If property is pre 1978 a lead safe credential is an EPA requirement so check if they are listed as a renovator there:http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp_firm.htmYou should insist that a certificate of insurance is issued by their insurance company or agent naming you as the certificate holder.

I've also used them when I bought property from a friend and  when I was the mortgage holder for a house I bought for my son.

I personally haven't gotten into flips yet as I am a buy and holder, but for sure it's on my radar to get into in the future.

When underwriting I usually use 5% of gross rent for cap-ex, vacancies and maintenance as place-holders/quick rule of thumb absent better data.