Ideally, if we go SFH I would like something that needs some rehab first to create some appreciation (I am a Gen Contractor) so I would hope to find something that CF at least 400-700 after rehab and the original 20% down. 

Many banks stop giving HELOCs to new customers..

We ended up buying a place with an extra bedroom we plan on renting out.I think we had to come to terms with the fact that the "traditional" ideal house hack that you hear about a lot on the podcasts, where your tenant "completely pays for your rent and then some" isn't as realistic in our market.

His position is that getting the ideal interest rates on a primary residence is too good to pass up for another rental.

The minimum credit score required is 620 & the ideal credit score: 760+What kind of reserves are required per property?

If you want to get started in real estate investing then I'd highly recommend buying the newest fourplex you can find in an ideal location.  

I'd have to agree with Sam, house hacking is great, but also starting out with a rental that you'd live in is ideal.

Do you think they see which one has the best reputation, customer service, which counter clerk is the nicest?

Multi units prefer 2+ bedroom units, 1,000+ square feet each unit, side by side is ideal if possible, want at least electric and gas separate, any area can work for these as long as it isn't a D area, but usually B-C class works best since buying these primarily for cash flow.

Ideally, I'd like to replace the whole thing, but there are alot of issues with the placement of the heating and condenser units and whether there is enough ventilation.