I was hoping for a place there that I can market to certain activities groups (Climbing, Skiing, Hiking), while also having a place for my family to be able to use when visiting for various events. 

You can meet local investors by registering to attend real estate events in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happenings6.

Look in the events tab for Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing.

If you have the money for a consultant, then you can probably spring for their events/seminars.

Sites like NeighborhoodScout or even just attending local city planning meetings can provide insights into where the city is growing.Network with Local Investors: Building relationships with experienced investors in Austin can accelerate your learning curve.

You can meet local investors by registering to attend real estate events in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happenings6.

With regards to recourse vs. non-recourse loans, would putting the HELOC in 1st position allow a bank to come after personal assets in the event of a default?

You can meet local investors by registering to attend real estate events in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happenings6.

The following steps outline a practical approach to sponsor underwriting:Sourcing of the SponsorIdentify potential sponsors through various channels such as websites, referrals, and industry events (There are about 6,000 Funds and Sponsors in the USA).

In the event there's a defect, are you going to file suit against yourself?