And I was wondering if anyone knew of any reliable General Contractors they could refer me to in the area.

Not all agents like to double-end deals, and most really great agents will not double-end unless it really makes sense- they will refer out to a buyer's agent.

I apologize for my lack of knowledge, what are we referring to entitlement on the second deal?

I would then check their license and insurance and lastly, get some references (from the job sites you visited).

I have a list of lenders in Ohio that I can refer to you 

If they don't do it themselves, they should able to refer you to someone reliable.  

And as David Greene referred to it, in his “Long Distance Real Estate Investing” book, keep as much water (equity) in your cup as possible?

Hi Troy,I'm going to expound just a bit on this with some pop culture references, you can take what you want out if it.[1] Interesting you have come this far in "Doctern' "-- (a Granny Clampet reference), all of this money, all this time and all this stress over the years and now find it "less than you want".[2] "Man hears what he wants to hear and disregards the rest"-- (a Simon and Garfunkel reference).

Karl, is the judgment you reference above and beyond the eviction judgement that outlines that damages may also be assessed? 

Let him know that I referred you and he will take good care of you guys :)