I know that I want to focus on LER with the brrr strategy. now my questions are:1. where to start?

This is useful information but much more useful would be a look at the pitfalls.

I use List Assist Pro's for my Cleveland listings. https://listassistpros.com/

I hear there's a recent case in Federal Court where an investor was found NOT GUILTY of violating anti spam laws because his text was asking to BUY a property, which isn't sales (which is what marketing is). 

Sadly, we lost my mother-in-law to cancer two years ago, and my father-in-law has since realized he no longer wants to live there, though he remains emotionally attached.The home is in its final stages of construction, needing only finish work and a kitchen remodel to be rentable.

Welcome to BiggerPockets, Sam!

Just to add some other options to the list Cost Segregation Authority Madison SpecEngineered Cost Seg 

Additionally, the property includes an outdoor swimming pool.The use of the accelerated depreciation strategy helps real estate investors to reduce the tax liability immediately which therefore increases their bottom line due to the offsetting of income.

I want to minimize my out-of-pocket expenses and am considering using a HELOC on my home or leveraging the equity from my first rental down the line.

Look for a designer who prioritizes durability, ease of use, turnovers and guest experience.5.