The issue I'm running into is the NC law that says you basically cant DIY anything that you plan to rent.

My suggestion would be 2 basic things. 

Having that low entry price point, a fantastic interest rate, and growth in value shows that, even with the unexpected, your investment was solid on the basics.

PLUMBING — SUPPLY LINESRemove all accessible galvanized supply lines in basementInstall PEX trunk and branch system to each unitNew main shutoff and individual unit shutoffs (label by unit)Proper supports, labeling, and pressure testNo in-wall work unless absolutely necessaryPLUMBING — DRAINSReplace all horizontal cast-iron drain lines in basement with PVCReplace only visibly failed vertical sectionsAdd minimum one accessible cleanoutCheck all vent stacks in atticInsulate exposed vent stacks as neededTie into existing stack and sewer lateralELECTRICALRemove abandoned/exposed knob & tube in basement and attic onlySecure open junction boxes, cap unused wiresPanel tighten, label, safety checkReplace unsafe breakers if found (no panel replacement unless quoted separately)Install basic LED pull-chain or strip lighting in basement common areasWATER MANAGEMENTSeal visible foundation penetrations and cracks (interior)Improve grading where soil slopes toward foundationAdd/extend downspouts to discharge away from structureI suggest doing a renovation of the units individually to achieve the targeted monthly cash flow and appreciation. 

It's basically the loan amount compared to how much the property is worth.

I've hired GCs and gave basic scope and they picked the lights themselves, etc.4.

When hedge funds started lending on single family rentals, they took the name "DSCR" and changed what it meant for more basic rental properties.

At some point, the biggest learning jump comes from underwriting real deals and talking to lenders, agents, and property managers.For a duplex or triplex house hack, I’d focus less on “financial freedom” narratives and more on execution basics: conservative underwriting, realistic rehab/maintenance assumptions, and making sure the numbers work even if things don’t go perfectly.The goal of the first deal isn’t optimization, it’s getting through one full cycle cleanly so you can repeat it with confidence.Best of luck!

that's basically all on you. 

For screening, run your own credit/background (SmartMove or RentSpree), verify employment or a corporate letter, and collect first month plus deposit up front since 30+ days is basically a tenant in Ohio.