I have even used credit card checks to get funds (they charge 3 - 4% fee for 12 - 18 months of 0% interest) and buy supplies at Lowes and Home Depot when they are running 0% financing promos. 

Two hours and $50 of cleaning supplies could make it look pristine; it just clearly has been neglected.First floor unit has had some cynical 'renovation' work done but is falling apart at the seams.

And, overall, sellers typically consider cash buyers to be financially "stronger" than financed buyers.

Your handyman knows what he needs to fix a problem and you have the supplies to fix problem. 

I cut it way back in the Fall, but apparently that only made it stronger.

Appraisals for refi's will usually be stronger in the late summer/early fall than in the late winter.

Or use the $1900 to down payment on a cheaper property which you house hack, or use for rehab, or interest to a private lender who supplies the funds.

I’d hate to step into a major unit supply overflow issue causing downward pricing pressure on achievable rents.

My brother in law is supervising the renovation, including performing most of the work himself(would be closer to $12k without him), he will be responsible for property management, and performing any future maintenance work that arises without charging for his time, only supplies. 

The most common ways to partner up on deals is either an LLP (less functional, but still offers some liability protection,) or the LLC (more functional and arguably stronger protections.)