Create a scope of work for the 10k budget to try to stay on budget and identify possible ways to save money for your project.

In a hot area, you may have to find off market deals, and stay off of the MLS until thing soften a bit.

They’re usually a duplex with illegal basement units.Most of the strategies I have been reading have been relying on assuming the illegal units will be rented, which I would like to stay away from if possible.

I stayed with it.

I find them tempting because if it is just a legitimate wholesaler out selling homes I never even knew existed then it could be a great connection to have, but if these have a reputation of being scams then I'd rather stay away.

welcome to bigger pockets @Faheem B. stay active on the site, it is a great tool for all levels of investing.  

Stay in your lane and worry about you and DEFINITELY don't go on rants in public using poor grammar and profanities.

Tips: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/10145/72118-sy...Bes sure you know what you are doing, stay conservative, under promise and over deliver, create relationships and understand the amount of money you are able to raise prior to putting a deal under contract. 

It’s all crap and it is better that you found it out prior to getting taken for more than you did.There is a ton of info here on BP for free or for very low cost so I recommend you read books and stay active here to learn.

There are usually lectures that can help you be informed about various topics in real estate, and if you introduce yourself and ask others about their investing, you might meet the person that can help you out as well.One other thing, listen to the podcasts here on Bigger Pockets: they can give you a lot of information as well, and are super entertaining.Lastly, be sure to stay active in the forums: it's a great way to learn and to connect with others!