Best regards, This approach is neutral and objective, focusing strictly on the criteria, and avoids discussing any specifics about the applicant’s personal situation.

I think they contain solid information and will help lay a good foundation as a beginner (Haha, I'm completely new to real estate as well, btw)I'm also going to be reading the following books, and hopefully I can finish all by the end of this month:1) The ABCs of Property Management2) The Advanced Guide to Real Estate Investing3) Long-Distance Real Estate Investing How to Buy, Rehab, and Manage Out-of-State Rental Properties (this might be the most important one to me personally)4) The Book on Investing in Real Estate with No (and Low) Money DownIn addition to reading, I'm consuming crazy amounts of youtube videos, and I'recommend you do this as well.

I've done this personally and have helped a bunch of other investors do the same.

The person they consider having the deep pockets. 

Investors want a person that they consider a good "business partner", but most of the wholesalers I see come of as borderline crimnals.

They are the best thing to add to your own personal knowledge, books, and podcasts out there.

With respect to paying $44k off on your HELOC, I personally think that is totally fine and a great start. 

During the slow season, do you personally focus on getting more rentals, focus more on family/personal life, or do you do something else?

Quote from @Jessie Dillon: just my 2 cents.. i'm not a fan of the syndication model. there are better ways to invest more passively where you have more of a say in what goes on, can achieve higher returns, and can have your personal interests at a higher priority. 

What appears to be great "curb appeal" to one person might be overwhelming to another.