If you’re still weighing your options between Salem and Portland, I’d recommend Salem for its easier entry points and cash flow potential, particularly for a BRRRR newbie.

I know this is most individuals’ issue and understand that there are other creative financing options, but I find myself stuck in an infinite loop of needing funds to invest so that I can raise more funds to invest.

Consider the diverse financing options available, including 30-year mortgages, fixs & flips, cash-outs refinance, ground-up constructions, And commercial properties?.

If you plan to live in the property, you may have a better (IMO) option of using section 121 to avoid cap gains taxes up to $250k filing as an individual, $500k as a married couple.

You can evaluate options in different geographies with different syndicators.

My initial hunch is that there may be extremely limited options of what can be built, and a likelihood of nothing being allowed. 

-Loan Extension Fees-Early Payment PenaltiesLots of good advice from everyone else above, but wanted to add this as if you can find a lender that minimizes these extra charges that can make a big difference

I have trying to find ways to give back to the community and while I would love to increase my monthly tithe percentage but that's not currently an option.

@Emre Dura you may want to connect with @Drew Sygit to discuss this in further detail after reading below...All foreign investors owning U.S. rental property are responsible for paying taxes on any and all rental income they earn in the U.S. regardless of any tax treaties that may exist.Since some of the regulations and requirements can be confusing, Logical Property Management (LPM) has created this document to summarize the options for a foreign investor.

Both options have merit: the standalone approach allows for independence and customization, while the duplex route offers potential rental income.