I would say they neighbor route is a good intro if you go over to feel them out, and then brushing up on there options so you can offer to help or atleast explain the many options they have is how i go about the awkward situation they may be in. just my 2 cents.

I like having public water, public sewer, and city police/fire/trash/brush services for the rental properties. 

Then do the walls yourself with a brush and rollers.Give yourself some extra time before hanging drywall. 

Moreover, brush up on Georgia law when it comes to wholesaling.

Depends on the attorney, location, the complexity of the deal, issues that arise...Broad brush answer $300-2000.

I use the 1% rule as a "broad brush" for my Mid-west town where prices are much lower than coastal areas too, so that could be a major difference.  

If not, just look at BP and you will see plenty of them but few seems to paint all market rate tenants with that same brush.  

That is the real worry with HELOCs that people brush aside; Banks can and will freeze HELOCs when it is in their best interest, unless you take certain specific steps, above and beyond, having the product active.  

The back yard was wooded and heavily overgrown so we cleared scrub brush and overgrowth then added a pool, grassy lawn and outdoor kitchen amongst the mature trees.

I’ve been casually researching over the past couple of years, have talked to a couple of friends who have portfolios, and am brushing up on everything by reading this book and my parents are doing the same: Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat: The BRRRR Rental Property Investment Strategy Made Simple: Greene, David M: 9781947200081: Amazon.com: BooksMy parents have $200 - $300k in capital they would be interested in using, but would be more comfortable using less than $100k if possible.