Trying to get an idea of how much cash we need to bring to the table and any curve balls that could come up.  

A fix and flip loan will generally lend up to 70% of the after repair value.

I'm comfortable with all of those, but I know that there is so much more than goes into your return than just those three main levers.Specifically, I'm getting hung up on 1) financing, 2) closing costs on both ends, and 3) holding costs

There are a lot of great meet ups I can point you to to meet other investors and learn, but the ones I know of are all in NoVa.

I am approved for a VA loan and trying to get the funds saved up to cover my closing cost etc... 

Call the tax office and ask if a tax sale is coming up, if so, get them to email you a list of properties.  

While it looks all good, I would be curious to see if an attorney would view this as mortgage fraud.On a sidenote: I will get up on my hill and say we see so many instances where someone cannot afford a property but think by the graces of their believer they can save it.

Be sure to read up in the Learn section above its loaded with great information even for experienced investors.

A lot of properties seem to be up for sale in there to areas, can anyone explain or perhaps it's just me.

There are entry-level positions, and a competent person can work up quickly.