Thanks for the suggestions guys!

I have someone I would suggest.  

Suggestions?

So, over the last 2 years here is what played out – all due to BP:Year 1Wholesaled a property which I had never done (I know – mixed reviews on this approach)Flipped 3 homes with private lenders found on BPPurchased 12 rental units with a BP partnerYear 2Flipped 3 homes – 2 with a lender from BPSpearheaded the purchase and rehab of a 22 unit condo conversion project of a former school with BP members and othersQUIT MY JOB!!!

Any suggestions as to what I should purchase as my very first home particularly if I wish to later become a real estate investor?

I suggested her to pull a HELOC and finish the basement but she filed for bankruptcy and can't get any loans. 

Is this a good suggestion for everyone out there?

If you  are seriously looking into buying this property and possibly using it as 2-unit now or in the future, I'd suggest spending $150-200 with a land development consultant who could explain to you the issues and challenges related to such rezoning process.All that said, City of Austin code enforcement is very complaint driven.

Short of crowdfunding does anyone have any suggestions on how I can approach potential investors about helping me come up with this down payment ?

I would suggest that you definitely do that.