The property is located in the Midwest and me and my business partner have ran the comps, numbers and called numerous property managers, handymen, inspectors and even asked locals on reddit to get a better understanding of the rental calculations and local biases in the area. 

I understand the fundamentals of buy and hold investing, but what I would really love to learn more about is the BRRRR strategy and the renovation process. 

Although this might seem like a super exciting way to “get out” of your current situation, please understand that REI is a very competitive and difficult business.

So I totally understand how to add value to a rundown property by doing the work myself -- it's good old-fashioned sweat equity (more properly termed "trading time for money.")What I don't understand is how it works to add value (at least profitably) by hiring it out.

.- I understand that some platforms (airbnb, vrbo) might have varying rates, but how much transparency should I get re: what renters are paying?

My understanding is this company was purchased by ATT.  

There is a balance between going for your dream, being supported to chase your dream, and understanding reality.Sorry. 

There were multiple parties (and wholesalers) involved in this deal, and at one point it felt like we were never going to make it to the closing table.

Or a friend has electrician experience or helps paint, how would someone be involved?

Get more involved and don't care about rate buy downs and closing costs assistance they will do whatever they can to get a deal done but they are the ones eating not you.