I don't think you need such a massive property management solution for 18 properties...

etc etc.They have a problem and you are the solution!

Having an engineer take measurements, do a few calculations and recommend a solution will not cost that much.A local flipper renovated a 1950s bungalow not to far from my personal residence.  

As a Rule of thumb, if the building was built after 1965 and before 1985 chances are that the builder used some kind of “innovative” (read cheap) solution trying to save money.

The dilemma: borrow money in order to make cosmetic improvements or find another solution?

Is this (and situations like it) just a complete no-go, or are there creative ways to work with the lienholders or any other solutions?

Best solution is 5% down on a conventional loan

However, one popular solution to this problem is through the use of “portfolio” lenders.In this free, live real estate workshop, I'm going to share with you my top tips for finding portfolio lenders and using them to fund your deals.

The tax treatment is different and it really becomes more of a question of where you want the income from this property to go - to your today self or your tomorrow self.Keep in mind, a self directed IRA or 401k may use a non-recourse mortgage, so you have the opportunity to take advantage of leverage in your retirement plan.  

Does anyone have any other solutions to this problem?