It gives you a broad base to work from and a substantial range of knowledge when making connections.

As an example oceanfront homes STR's typically begin in the $1M+ range, and more conservative initial SFR investments begin around the $350-400k mark.

and seeking some wisdom for a rookie.Interested specifically in Kissimmee/Orlando/Davenport as Disney market feels familiar to me and it’s generally a cheaper entry point than beach condos.Looking at Regal Oaks (staying here now on vacation myself and enjoying it, though have read mixed things about occupancy), Windsor Hills, and Champions Gate.Goal is to have a second home that I AirBnb out the majority of the year but also can escape to when NYC is ruthless (like now :) hoping to live in the 150-250K range, bonus if there’s a pool (regal oaks has community pool and individual hot tubs), and solid amenities.Other than reading for my life, how can I number crunch and prepare for this?

i have a couple quick questions about using rental income to qualify.This is my first (possible) purchase and basically the home price is outside of my range to qualify on my own.

as the neighbor would retain some value in the land (easement for drain field) and the land is essentially un-developable, what is a fair price range?  

But if you took a HELOC, which tends to have relatively high interest rates, your blended rate (the average of what you're paying on your mortgage plus the rate on the HELOC) would likely be in the same range as today's mortgage rate.You'd also only be renting out one unit, but by selling it might allow you to get more than one additional unit and still grow your portfolio. 

As of now, HELOC rates typically range from 5% to 7%, but it's essential to check with multiple lenders to get the most accurate and competitive rates.Joshua Christensen - I totally agree with these points as well. 

Depending on what advisor you speak with you will get opinions ranging from 1 to 2 years for holding purposes.  

I don't know much about the Peninsula or South Bay but I have seen some deals in the East Bay in the high $600,000s to $700,000 range.

@Ben Russell- thanks ..ARM rates are definitely higher / worse than fixed rate options  ( especially on invst properties ) ...Use the  30 yr fixed option and make sure you have the delayed financing aspect figured out ....no way you will be able to get mid  6% range at this time