-------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

Typically the regionals / local banks will give you the best terms on HELOCs.

@Susan Tan you may also have lending options in the Houston area that offer 100% LTC financing for rehab projects.

It sucks, I'd rather have 2 offers on a listing and a day to review than 12 offers and 2h binding acceptance! 

My plan is to build along the same type of home, but of course with some of my design inputs.I want to get a really solid foundation before any actual building happens and I would truly appreciate any advice that anyone has to offer of some preliminary items I should know and take care of beforehand.

@Emily ShinHouse hacking a multi-family property is an excellent way to start investing in real estate, especially in a market like Columbus, Ohio, which offers affordability and growth potential.

Quote from @Melanie Baldridge: Why I like investing in real estate more than 401(k)s.Both offer tax deferrals, but here's the difference:If you're making pre-tax contributions to your 401(k), then withdrawals = ordinary income tax.With real estate gains, you're paying capital gains tax (which is typically lower).Plus, RE investors get:1.

As a student without W2 income, you may need to show alternative income sources like savings, freelance work, or a job offer.

I understand that not every project will be a success, and I am okay with that.However, when it comes to financial wins, which option do you think offers a better financial outcome?

That's a typical scenario and could cost you $10,000 - $15,000 so that would be a good starting point for your reserve.But there's more!