My question is, can i used $40k of the 1031 for the down payment, and then use $10k to help fund the escrow account? 

We won't need their help funding it, but on paper our debt to income will probably look a bit screwy in the gap while I'm working part time and then starting WOCS/IERW. 

But, I want to acquire multiple properties, and the more funds & borrowing base I have tied up in one property, the few properties I can acquire.

Strategy B: $5K in FundRise balanced/ advanced fund (includes equity + debt).  

Well, that and our funds are tied up in the final remodeling projects of our house.

That said you could theoretically use it to fund PART of the purchase.

I was wondering if anyone had any advice for someone looking for a hard money lender or a bank that'll fund my first flip with me.

So having all this a good credit score, bank statement/funds (does paying more % down help at all?)

The VA loan can be a help in getting funding to purchase your first property. 

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