I have more in savings, I just don't feel comfortable investing it in case it doesn't work out.

Larger stuff banks try to workout or work with owner to sell pre-foreclosure.The banks often push to auction websites to sell.

My summers off from teaching were spent with my sons painting and performing routine maintenance on our rental units.

@Scott Marsh You'd have to figure out the numbers to see if it would work out for you.

I feel a bit anxious because I know I am ready to branch out into taking action (I have read several other books as well and listened to a variety of podcasts) but I don’t want to do so and get myself into trouble financially if things don’t work out 100% to plan.

I wouldnt sign any exclusive contracts with them though so if it doesnt work out you just lose a little time.

What your proposing is not an issue and is routinely structured this way by many investors. 

Looking to refinance and having a hell of a time finding anyone to look at it.Hoping someone has a lead on a really amazing lender/broker etc I have the option of replacing one of the units with a new mobile or stick built, or replacing all mobiles with new... for the cost and this location any and all options would work out financially.

If there are good comps in your area it may work out for you, but I wouldn't take the risk if you could go the HELOC route.

I hope that future multifamily properties I find in KCMO work out the same way.