As in we would each pay half of the down payment, combining our resources to buy a better property.

This is important since you'll want to know when to use the proper tool for the proper job.

Leverage increases your returns in most cases to 10%+ when properly done.In reality for every dollar of dead equity you are losing 10% - 4% = 6% lost income.

I Don't trust and believe they would handle business properly from what I see.

I personally like Proper Insurance.

Since that time, I have watched more products being offered by GF, not just rehab loans anymore, but new construction, BRRRR loans, even notes of pre-bundled loans underlying them come into the mix of what an investor can purchase fractions of.I like the fact that the borrowers tend to have some experience, and skin in the game, and that the GF underwriters properly value these properties, and the fact that all these metrics and more are available for any investor to see. 

We are very naive and trusting people, so we had major issues with contractors (had to fire the first one) giving us proper estimates and following through on their work in a timely manner, and sticking to budget.

Regarding financing @Ham Merritt is spot on with everything he's shared and he knows the Milwaukee markets and lending options extremely well - a great resource to leverage.

I've got a few resources for you.

If she continued to make changes without my prior written consent, then I would again serve her proper legal notices each time.