We purchased in 2011 and gutted and remodeled much our house. 

Has anyone here remodeled a house they intended to live in then immediately refinanced it to get back some or all of the remodeling costs?

For me, I’m a remodeling contractor and have stopped taking on any more projects.

Call some remodeling companies and ask if they know anyone that can help you estimate repairs.

It sounds like when they bought it it already was set up as a duplex and they just remodeled it.

Always make sure you account for added expenses and depending on the remodel, you will likely always have the unexpected.  

I'll also need a plumber and a carpenter for some more skilled work.I'm going to likely stay in the units or an air bnb as I do the remodel, but once it's all settled I'll be back in the Hudson valley/NYC. 

You say it was build in 1980 so the 4' on the roof should not be there unless it was remodeled and permitted later.

My goal would be to use them as a way to buy the rental and remodel then refi with a bank?

Doesn't leave any room for Roof, appliances, hvac, hot water heaters, bath remodel, kitchen remodel, etc.