Even the most active moderators tend to stick to specific forum topics.

Need to try though.For the future, to not repeat your mistake, read this post:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/1167632-expla...

see these threads.https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1160450-run-i...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1159104-overl...

There have been some great posts about this very topic.Here are a couple of helpful articles: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1171104-the-m...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1159104-overl…House hacking is the best way to get started in my opinion. 

IMO, open carry is not a good idea (note: i'm in FL where open is not allowed, I'm from VA where it is) - my reasoning?

I think the main thing he needs is someone who will counsel him and put the brakes on any foolish ideas.

Thanks Anthony, solid idea to improve efficiency.

I plan to make aggressive offers, 20-30% below market value, to appeal to motivated sellers.I've been considering these areas:BeechviewBrooklinePenn HillsTroy Hill & FineviewI'd love to hear your thoughts on these areas and get some more ideas for potential buy-and-hold properties.Thanks!

Finally, your hunch is correct: when the syndication cycle closes, your past "free lunches" will have to be paid for, aka recapture.Here're some relevant posts from your favorite site:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/839015-are-sy...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51-tax-legal-issues-con...https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-professional-...  

I'd compare the blended rate with how much you could get with a refinance otherwise and tell you whether it's a better idea to go with a full refinance or the HELOC route.Feel free to PM me if you don't want to share this information on the public forum.