Makes me wonder why more of them aren't making proper efforts to educate themselves on value and instead think that a house selling for say $250K is a great deal because it is much cheaper than houses where they are from.

I’ve heard your concerns, and BiggerPockets is stepping up to provide stronger support and more robust education to empower passive investors.That’s why we’re creating PassivePockets.This isn’t just another platform; it’s our commitment to bringing transparency, education, and a true community to the world of passive real estate investing.To make this a reality, we knew we needed more than just an idea—we needed a partner with deep expertise.

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

As for the HELOC, the more I research the more it matches your comment regarding using it for home improvements / flips so I may sit on that for a little bit until I educate myself further on those topics.As for raising capital, I have read the private lenders are a popular way and hard money loans which I do not fully understand yet.

Let's explore the example you gave a little further for educational purposes. 

@Keaton VolsTo expand your real estate portfolio and achieve financial growth, consider refinancing your property, saving for a down payment, implementing house hacking, partnering, exploring markets, building a network, educating yourself, diversifying into alternative investments, maximizing tax benefits, and maintaining an emergency fund.

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

I will talk to a CPA but just trying to educate myself.

Not sure I agree with that title, especially after all the 'gurus' seem to get bashed on BP just because they provide a service/education to people for money.

Also Look at Jim Abbott the baseball player.