Few questions, newbie here starting off

[Raffaele Bruno]

Hey guys,

I'm a long time reader but new user here, I'm thinking about starting to invest in real estate but have a few questions on how to start. I have a steady job, not looking to leave it. I'm only looking to increase my cash flow by investing in homes and renting them out. I have a few goals set in mind, but I'm not too sure which is the best way to start off.

I currently own a home that I purchased for $365,000 2.5 years ago, spent around $80,000 remodeling it and it was recently appraised for $496,000. I'm living in this home, my mortgage is $2,100 and I can rent it for around $2,400-2,500.

I have $50,000 to invest and can get a HELOC for another $95,000 if needed. I also have 2 brothers, each with around $50,000 that might want to invest as well.

My main question is, can I use a wholesaler if I'm going to be doing a bank loan or is that route strictly cash only?

If that route is cash only, what is my best starting point right now? After paying all my bills, I save roughly $1,500 a month that I'm more than willing to use to reinvest in future homes and whatnot. 

Any and all help will be appreciated, I'm just really confused on where to start.