In my previous thread I asked about getting around fha owner occupancy requirements with traditional funding but the best anyone could come up with was basically taking out a private/hard money loan.I have a property that I can buy for 71k and needs 15k in rehab costs. 

Is there a way I can do this on my own, for mainly just basic research in the beginning to be able to cross out the ones that are not financially wise at the time?

But if its a basic bathroom then I think a little inconvenience isn't a major issue that will hinder you renting it or getting a decent rent rate.  

If it's a LOT more than the number you arrive at by using @Damian Leonard's checklist, then you likely have an unrealistic Seller on your hands ie. one who is COUNTING on getting a higher price by offering "Seller finance".Don't fall for that trick!

In addition, he and his wife will refinance and pull a HELOC out and basically cookie cut or rinse/repeat this strategy.

Basically a Cleveland version of HGTV's Fixer Upper.

A few questions about the tricks of the trade: Where do you find most of your deals?

But, basically you need to get with your sister, get her on board, then crunch the numbers.

I have been perusing the BP forums and blogs for some time and will definitely continue to look here for tools, tips, and tricks. 

Always network here on Bigger Pockets it is a great resource that is free basically.