I may have to start smaller and that's ok too, at least I'll be in the game.

Person new to real estate trying to get in the “game” with little or no capital and trying creatively.  

Don't hate the playa, hate the game.

Is there a simpler way to do things?

If your game plan is to pay it off with prepaying all your money you absolutely need a HELOC however don't need to use.

I recently came across a piece in Forbes talking about how quickly rental dynamics can evolve when population growth spikes.I’m based in Phoenix and have been in the real estate game for three decades, and a close friend of mine recently reminded me how the right connections can shape your entire strategy.

Nothing wrong with being a bit new - there are options out there for all stages of the game. 

I'm pretty new to the game and would love to get some advice from more experienced investors here!

Should I re evaluate what strategy I should use and maybe look further out in places such as Rochester and BRRR properties out thereHey @Jared Leggett, I know I'm jumping in here late in the game, and I have to admit that I haven't read all the many comments you've gotten, but I wanted to provide what I imagine and glean is a contrary view.It is easy to dunk on NYC for young investors starting out, but if you are a first time homebuyer you can buy a $1M property with $35k down (+ closing costs which can be avoided with seller's concessions).

It's a numbers game.