That said, I've been doing some browsing of properties in other states that seem within my budget but given I'm inexperienced, I'm hesitant on that front as well.

We budget 1 rent payment per year

Once you get the lender find your budget.... then go from there.Depending on your capital... you probably aren't at the point of needing attorneys.

@Anna DyalChances are slim to none of getting a personal unsecured loan.Lenders lend to someone who they believe is low risk.You have shown you haven’t been able to pay your current bills so adding more debt will most likely make the situation worseMy advice is before buying anything else or adding more debt get your house/finances in order and do a budget and manage your money.Have seen many people do what you have done and go bankrupt once housing slows or rents stop coming in

But keep in mind that any common wall or floors need to be fire rated assemblies, not hard but something to budget for.

We had budgeted 40k in capital improvements, which turned into 100k in less than 3 months... :-) None of it could have been predicted really.

Responsible for funding, timelines, budgets, creating building drawings and permits.

Take a look at your budget and real estate goals and go with the option that fits you best. 

You will never be accurate, the best you can do is over budget and know for fact you are not going higher than that number.

Paint kitchen walls, ceilings, trims, moldingsIf the budget allows, you can go the extra mile and also do the following:6.