I’m currently wholesaling, but contemplating of getting my license just to have more validity, knowledge, and a broader network in real estate.

In Santa Rosa, CA they are using ~$330 a square foot for mid-priced homes (300-500k) and a 2.5 million dollar home like that it is at $500 per square foot to rebuild after the fires.   

You just need his books and a barrel of Cool-Aid  :)

I own a PM company and a considerable amount of rentals (some I manage & some I don't & some out of state), land, vacation rentals, etc.

I would choose between a 30 year and a HELOC.

I provide a estimate for a scope of work and a finished product . 

And as @Russell Brazil mentioned expect a haircut.. 

Later, when you have contacts, negotiating skills and a track record, there are creative ways to do more without funds, but it's not a way to try to start.That being said, the most important thing you can do is network network network.

My neighbor bought a modular/mobile home that took 6 semi's to bring in it is a huge house with 2 stories and a two car garage with a loft, and it is definitely appreciating in value. 

The property is in fact Paid off completely and IS still in her name and as I said I do live on the property and pay the Taxes on it!