Hi RickeyAs a first-time homebuyer, you have great opportunities in the condo market.

It affects the marketability/value of the property. 

The STR market here has become way more saturated and competitive especially in San Juan. 

Study the market.

Raising money is all about marketing and sales (not real estate specific) so either hire marketing agency and read sales books, or hop on some LinkedIn courses on marketing and sales.Not sure the legal structure to use: talk to accountants and attorneys.Need deal flow: talk to brokers and go to a lot of networking events.Lending terms: start calling banks and loan brokers.From there, it is all risk mitigation. 

There aren't any good wholesalers in the Cleveland market.

can the lot be sold on the open market? 

You picked a great community to join.. have you checked out local comps to gauge the market vibe yet?

I'll hand it to Pace Morby tho- he is an amazing marketer. 

I'd recommend speaking with local specialists in your target market to look at multiple investment options side-to-side.Lastly, some of my clients have been encouraged to stay away from HELOCs unless they expect a lump sum (inheritance, sale of other asset, bonus, etc.) to pay off the HELOC in the next year or 2.