One option I am trying to decide on is whether or not I should purchase the house myself as an investment property with the intention of either renting it out or fixing it up and selling it.  

Additionally, investors can hire a property manager to handle day-to-day operations, freeing up their time and allowing for truly passive income.2.Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)REITs are a passive investment option that allows investors to purchase shares in a company that owns and manages a portfolio of income-producing real estate properties.

I wont be needing 70k upfront thats for sure, so it is a cheaper option for me.  

@Kyle Deutschmann want to chat about options for hard money

I know it wasn't one of the options but... 

It sounds like you're weighing your options pretty carefully.

Quote from @Rowan Lane: If the high interest rates are killing your cash flow, it might be worth looking at other options.

Still exploring the financing options that are available and doing lots of reading to learn more. 

I have a spreadsheet with options I know to review. 

* I've also debated NH as a cheaper option but need to do more research.