I've been listening to Bigger Pockets, reading articles, and attending 1-2 real estate meetups a month for a year, networking as much as possible along the way.

Study interior photos if you can find them, that is the most valuable data out there.

That article I linked above had a bit about basement bedrooms.

I’ve done some research via articles and podcasts (thank you bigger pockets) and feel all that’s left Is to jump in.

https://www.wlky.com/article/beecher-terrace-rebuild-taking-shape-in-louisville/30681669This will make ripples! 

On the BP article on VA loans, it says that I can count future income from the duplex tenants when qualifying for the loan.

Here are a few articles on syndication: https://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/10145/83067-limited-partner-s-guide-to-investing-in-the-right-dealhttps://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/10145/73373-opm-how-to-syndicate-with-successhttps://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/10145/72118-syndication-the-ins-and-outs-of-real-estate-syndication Todd Dexheim

My time is more valuable than a project manager.

Great thread here and some really valuable input from @Andrew MacCaull.I can share some great info on how I was able to get started with little money down.

Here is an article that goes into DTI and what factors influence it.However, the fastest way to get your questions answered, and/or to find out how much you qualify for, would be to speak with a lender.