It doesn't take the place of a proper title search, but if it's available and free you may be able to use it find some initial info.

Unused contingency funds, unless they were received directly from the borrower, must be used to reduce the outstanding balance of the renovation mortgage after all of the renovation work has been completed and the certification of completion has been obtained.The loan is not re-amortized.Draw Schedule: The HomeStyle program has a maximum 4 draw process.The initial draw can be up to 25% of the total project and can be for materials for the project.The final draw will be at least 10% of the total project as retainage and funds will be released upon receipt and approval of final inspection, Certificate of Completion from Appraiser, signed All Bills Paid Affidavits and Lien Waivers.Additional Draw Information: Signed Draw Request by borrower and contractorSigned All Bills Paid Affidavitreview and approve the draw request and will release funds for disbursementA check will be issued in the name of the borrower and contractor and delivered to borrower via USPSAn inspection of work to date will be performed at 50% completeFinal Draw Information: Signed Draw RequestFinal inspection/Completion Certificate will be required for release of final fundsA Title Update showing property free from lien or encumbranceGeneral Contractor’s Lien Waiver AffidavitAffidavit of Completion GMG will review and approve the draw request and will release a check in the name of the borrower and contractor.Change Orders and Cost Overruns: Changes to the initial plan are not permitted unless prior approval by Gateway Mortgage.

I need to go back to the drawing board to figure out where I can generate a minimum down payment for an owner-occupy property.

We have a great friend that runs his fathers 3rd generation wrecking yard & he's a member of the country club we attend.

My initial instinct would be to call up some reputable contractors and pick their brains for a few minutes about this.

I know the initial licensing course is about $700, but how much do you spend each year on access to MLS, continuing ed, etc.?

Hey Brian,We are initially looking at SFR and duplexes, however the apartment market there is interesting to us as well.

To be honest I'm not very familiar with TurboTax, but if answering Yes to that question automatically generates a Schedule E for that property, you should answer it No. 

I am interested in learning a little of everything about real estate investing and my goal is to build a bountiful portfolio that will generate a comfortable life for me and my family as I know this is attainable if I put in the work.

Renting out a $1M property once you leave it is not going to generate any cash flow for you.Take your $300k and invest it in rental properties out of state and use that cash flow to pay for your rent or to quit working your day job and move someone cheap!