~~~Motivational tip: Hard work pays off, strive to exceed the standards~~~Kathryn

Minus 20% property management, repairs, capex, maintenance, etc. it would have exceeded my target returns after some kind of refi.  

As far as multi family goes, everything I have sold exceeds the 1% rule.  

These small towns would do cartwheels if someone would do anything with these old buildings as this is a common theme all over the areaSaying that,  the cost to renovate would certainly exceed any potential value. 

Does new ARV minus rehab costs exceed old ARV?

You can borrow 50% of your solo 401k funds not to exceed $50,000 and use those funds for any purpose.

I hope to continue my progression with additional purchases of small to medium sized multi family properties over the next five years until cash flow exceeds my current desk job.

If that was paid out of pocket already, you obviously don't need to bring that money to closing.To answer some of your questions - the loan limit can be exceeded by the amount of the upfront MIP (mortgage insurance premium). 

You build up a $6,000 minimum on your card and once that is exceeded, you get rebates on all the previous purchases + future purchases.

If the rehab raises rent by $100/month, (1) you would recoup the investment from the extra cash flow in about four years ($4800) and (2) if comparable properties in the area also have updated kitchens, you have likely forced appreciation for your property, creating instant equity that hopefully exceeds the $4500 in cost.