I do not have any sources for the info you requested but I went to Germany a while back and stayed in a prefab house that was comparable to my house in quality and there is no way anyone would guess that it was prefabbed. 

I wanted to take the matters  into my own hands and BECOME THE SOURCE.

I have studied under many REI groups and pursued closing deals on my own, however, I found that in this area in Northern Virginia, it was difficult for me to build that trust with the big time players in this area.I wanted to take the matters into my own hands and BECOME THE SOURCE.

Make sure you source your properties well.

To do a renovation will involve buying and spending on materials so you will not be able to do this with no money.If you have time you could source an investment deal by negotiating a great below market value price and an investor could pay you for securing it. a couple of these could see you with enough money to start refurbishing.

Is there anyway you could share your source over a DM?

This will be my main source for leads.

So when the market tanked, not only did my investments tank, but my primary source of income evaporated as well. 

Portfolio lenders can also be a valuable source of advice and guidance as they are typically looking for a long term relationship with quality people.  

Thought there might be a better source out there.