Although I’ve been a long-time member, I’m just starting to engage more actively here.

Engage professionals to inspect major components such as the roof, plumbing (including sewer lines), foundation, drainage, electrical systems, HVAC, chillers, boilers, termites, exterior walls, balconies, stairs, rails, and concrete.

Could someone please advise an actionable step or game plan I can follow to tap into my equity correctly (if that makes sense here) whether that's HELOC, Cash-Out or another strategy?

There is a lot more paperwork for these traditional mortgages and they will probably take 2-4 weeks longer, but you could save quite a bit in fees and rate.Otherwise, DSCR or a commercial loan is the way to go.You may be engaging in overkill if this is your first property and you are trying to put it into an LLC.

Decide which game you want to play.

I’m excited to engage with this community, share my experiences, and learn from all of you.

Quote from @Matt Tortora: Fair point - but I will be partnering with someone who has good MF experience.If you are partnering with someone with experience in the game, your value to the equation is not equal.

The profit wasn't worth the remodel and sweat equity so we choose the long game and cash-flow. 

Account Closed - I am trying to map out a game plan for my next investment, and a good friend of mine who is an experienced realtor wants me to consider Section 8 because he has a client who is an investor making very good money off of it.

Starting later in life is no problem—real estate is a long game, and the key is building the right foundation.