Did Wells Fargo require you to provide any local address?

It's best to get started out on secure legal footing.

An additional benefit of a detailed engineering-based Cost Segregation Study is that it can increase potential insurance premium savings as well as provide support for the property tax appeals process.

I am already so thankful for the bigger pockets ecosystem in providing so much helpful information.

The mess that we took over was substantial - no leases, little contact info, and no idea what the security deposits were.

With no experience and not crazy strong personal finances to pledge to the bank/lender, its doubtful many banks/lenders will provide the construction loan on a spec build. 

CR had put significant $$ into renovations so these row houses were really like all new - roof, appliances, gutted throughout etc. it was understood that many of the rentals would be Section 8 which is a good secure investment.

Your hard money lender might only lend you up to 70% of the ARV, which could help secure your exit.

Remember that securing bank financing for people with 1099 income is really tough. 

I can provide you some guidance.