I am aiming for a home between 150-250k, which i can afford if all hell breaks loose, at a 5% conventional 30 year term loan (unless a lender or someone else can suggest me a better loan) My question is what are the minimum requirements for obtaining such a home (capital wise, credit score wise, salary wise) Who can i specifically talk to for these numbers and help me understand tenant demand, areas, and more specific information about my market?

I appreciate your wise words, thank you Nathan!

Purchased a home during the pandemic, value has gone up roughly 2.5(estimating), believe i have enough value in a HELOC to get a down payment on a second home.. is it a wise decision to add that to my plate then rent the first house for mortgage payment+?

If I could chime in to help in the search:be sure to find an accountant who is willing to grow with you, and is not too high priced fee-wise.

Considering that, may be wise to hold with what you've got until you resolve those issues and see what money you will have available to commit long term without risking a cash crisis if you use your available funds and then find out you have a $50k problem on your hand with the mid-term rental.   

If you plan to sell after the rehab then getting an estimated after repair value from a qualified realtor would be wise.

If I could chime in to help in the search:be sure to find an accountant who is willing to grow with you, and is not too high priced fee-wise.

It's wise to consult with a real estate CPA who specializes in taxes.They can advise on capital gains taxes, potential exclusions under Section 121 if occupancy requirements are met, and the option of a Section 1031 exchange to defer capital gains by reinvesting in another property.

Even if someone makes 5 million but it took away time wise one of the best decades of your life was it worth it?

But I'm wondering whether it is wise to put more money down for lower interest rates or take a hit on interest rates and keep money in pocket?