I also like following Brooke Pfautz (CEO of Vintory) who wrote the book 0 to 500 Properties in 5 Years, which is specifically geared towards us STR Managers.  

There are towns that are not too far where there could be some options for you, but I would start going to real estate investor meetups and pair that with books and podcasts.

I've read over 50 books on REI in Japan but haven't done much in the US.

I understand that the interest on this HELOC should be tax-deductible, and I have documentation to support the transaction.

He may be actually speaking about a "Wrap".Find out if actual ownership converts to youMake sure you have a title reportYou may want to pay for an appraisal and an inspectionMake sure you use an escrow company or an attorney to do the transaction Hi Ken!

Learn and Network:Learn as much as you can about house flipping by using online resources, books, or courses.

Listening to one bigger pockets episode or a good book here and there really can be a good reminder, refresher on the financial journey.

Not sure I would use up my full emergency fund for a down payment, owning 2 properties and not having any funds for emergency is not advisable in my book. 

I have been reading and listening to real estate investing books everyday for a while now and it is something i want to pursue. 

Most real estate investing books will answer this question, and there are a lot of blogs about the topic.