-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

.- The owner has full ownership and control of the property and can make all decisions such as when to sell, or may decide to operate the property according to their own wishes even if those wishes are against the recommendations of the property management company.

You reference taking out a HELOC and those are generally provided when the property is in your personal name, which I don't recommend for investment properties.Overall, it sounds as if you're tired of dealing with "long distance" ownership.

I would only recommend purchasing items that fall into that vision. 

If you want to violate them thats your call. but since your asking sounds like you want to follow the laws which I support and would recommend.

I would highly recommend looking into syndications!

So, with a mix of retail and residential, I'd recommend something in the middle is a good starting point.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

If you're looking to BRRRR/flip, I do recommend looking into hard money loans.

I’d love to connect with local real estate agents, lenders, and contractors who can help me navigate this journey.I’m continuing to educate myself on finding, analyzing, and financing deals, and I’m excited to hear any advice or recommendations the community has to offer.Thank you for reading, and I look forward to connecting with many of you!