The concern is possible lead based paint.

@Steven DeHart I'd start off listening to the podcasts and gaining as much knowledge as possible.

I am considering opening a HELOC in order to do any of these projects and possibly an investor.

This of course depends on your starting bank roll - but if its like mine (under 100k) - Im trying to put as little as possible into it on top of initial equity and fees.this will likely chew a big hole in your ROI  (now if you are looking to improve value with a cash out refi or a great prospect comes along that needs combo new plumbing, roof, windows, foundation repair, etc - well just make sure you know what youre getting into and/or have a good contractor and finger on the pulse of the market when estimating the ARV YOURSELF - couple missed items and you risk having a bad first investment and not doing it again).    7) dont be scared be ambitious ( i should heed my own advice sometimes) 8) define numbers goals within your target areas.  

If you're scared to take the leap to get your first property, I'd advise making your first deal as low risk as possible. 

The name of the game is collect monthly premiums and payout as little as possible.

Again, I like the idea of a new fourplex, it just seems like you’re glossing over alternatives/possible problems. 1) You say you want to hold for cash flow instead of taking $120k cash by selling as soon as it’s built.

Also did not know a possible payment method could be so polarizing.

Getting a steady, reliable paycheck is awesome and it is how you keep yourself lendable and scalable.This - "transition out of a 9-5 as soon as possible" - is not what you should be saying at 25 years old.

Not sure if a HELOC is possible.