These upgrades help sell or rent any home faster and at a higher price than those that aren't upgraded.  

My goal like you is to invest out of state because my market in Salt Lake is way to expensive and nothing is even close to the 1% rule here.

What are the best ways to minimize rent loss while accomplish my goal of updating all units by the end of the year?

Currently, I am looking to build my team moving forward, and pursue my goals. 

You didn't declare your goal so I'm assuming a balance?

My goals include saving about $10-15k while at home this summer which I'm on track to hit within the next 2 weeks, it's just the initial downpayment that I'm working towards for that first property.

I could consider a personal loan for that money as well, which would let me rent out the unit faster but would require larger monthly payments.During the second year of interest only, the unit would be rented (accounting for up to 1 month of vacancy), and I would make $496 that year.At the end of the second year, I would refinance, and if the value of the house appreciated at ~2%, I would owe the seller around $10,000 after the refinance.

When I am driving neighborhoods I get seriously jazzed as I am sure many of you do.My long-term goals are to build up a portfolio of buy & hold properties and do some flips along the way.

Catching their attention and holding it enough to influence your message upon them is the whole goal.

Stay focused on your goal and it will happen!