I won't go to deep into short sales, but there are a ton of additional costs that are associated with a deal like this.

In addition, check out the chamber of commerce https://greaterlouisvillepartnership.com/ where you can find the top 10 employers for different industries such as healthcare, tech, manufacturing and logistics.

Spend some time digging in, and you will reap the profits of having a great understanding quickly without getting swindled by wholesalers and contractors. 

Additionally, you will still be responsible for paying the cost of the house and any associated renovation expenses, which may be a significant financial burden. it is important to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.

Accept the fact that your renovation is imperfect and move on to a more productive issue in life.More expensive fix: Install a plastic surround (or whatever kind of surround that makes you happy) and spend the bucks to fix the siding so that it looks like the window was never there.Most awesomest fix: Alter and/or move the header and install a 4' x 15" tempered glass transom window with a PVC frame and tile or granite trim above the point where water can reasonably enter the framing.

I was under the understanding that this would be for an additional investment that would be non-owner occupied.

Look into his stuff to learn more about creative finance methods but be mindful about spending thousands on a course. 

Think of what you want to spend (or can spend) time or money. 

I would also like to not have to spend a million bucks on a primary residence there, everything here is expensive and I question why I don't cash out and move elsewhere, simplify my life, quit my W2 job, etc. 

While it sounds ideal to bring on another lending partner in addition to seller financing - as you can see you have to pay the piper at some point.