Again, the BiggerPockets store has some books on this topic, or you can learn about it by watching podcasts, reading blogs, and interacting on the forum.

Seems like a good idea in theory maybe not in practice. 

HELOC for down payment is a good idea, if you can't fund the entire purchase price + rehab amount with the HELOC a combo of HELOC + hard money is a great way to get started.

But given I've paid for snow removal like once ever, I don't know what I should offer someone who is not a "pro" and already has an idea of their rate. 

It’s a good idea to work with a qualified intermediary and a tax advisor to ensure everything is structured properly and you’re clear on any tax implications.

This thread will give clues alsohttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1196873-fix-a...

Starting with local credit unions is a good idea.2 - I recommend starting your search with a Realtor who specializes in working with investors.

@Leslie L Meneus, while the forums can be pretty good, in-person networking and sharing ideas is much more valuable.  

All that being said I don't know about if a salt hot tub is better per se, I know it's better for your skin and I'd say perhaps if you're in a very health conscious area like Joshua Tree, some folks might be attracted to the idea of a salt water hot tub.

If the seller isn't responsive, then do like the idea of telling the tenant you tried, and see if they can get some free legal assistance from a tenant resource center.It is a good reminder as closing approaches to ask the seller to keep tenants updated on the pending sale and when ownership is scheduled to change.