As I'm getting started I thought it might be worth working with a RE coach to help map out goals and strategies.

So something you might look at but again choose wisely don't get stuck in SOJAC stick to Madison or Rankin counties.

I plan on expanding to a PPC budget very soon.For BP, my goal is to not only learn and connect with any and everyone but also contribute wherever I see fit.

Once you're ready, create a goal (e.g., "I will buy at least one single-family home, duplex, triplex, or fourplex before the end of 2019") and then do it.

Choose a location with low-cost homeowners insurance because they have the lowest risk of natural disasters: Insurance - ValuePenguinIf you follow the above process, you will now have a short list of potential cities that are very likely to appreciate much faster than others due to their strong fundamentals.

One thing that really helps is lining up flexible, short-term financing—like hard money loans or private lenders—who get your goals and can close quickly.

The goal is legitimate: due to complex tax rules, you have opportunities to game the system by selling some of your investments and intentionally generating either gains or losses.

so - i don't understand how a deal like this is going to help you advance your goals. 

For long-term strategies, a cash-out refinance is usually more advantageous, as it preserves ownership and offers fixed terms.To proceed, start with a professional appraisal to confirm the home’s value, compare refinance terms with traditional lenders, and carefully scrutinize shared-equity program terms to ensure they align with your financial goals.

From my experience, success in real estate investing starts with clearly defining your goals and continuously educating yourself through podcasts, books, forums, and courses.