I have been working with a credit union to get a HELOC to allow me to tap my equity to buy additional real estate.

Ongoing construction projects valued between $26 billion and $30 billion fuel employment opportunities.

Note, if your 401k is all with the same employer you have always had, and you are still working there, you likely can't move it.

A good broker can always add additional lenders to their mix if you get a really one off situation.

Additionally, the management companies would take around 10% of the rent for their services.Given this, I’m exploring whether it would be a smart move to refinance when interest rates drop, and possibly form an LLC to transfer the property into.

Are there ways to add value through renovations, additions, improved management?

Will monthly rent cover all expenses and provide additional funds to set aside for reserves?

Some private lenders are not willing to loan on auction properties, given the additional nuances and potential risk. 

If employer doesnt match, might as well do a standard ira if you qualify.

So, the tax man will take a chunk in addition to your costs to sell (commissions, etc). 10.