If you want it to run well, you may be spending a lot of time at the property.

I spend majority of my time in central and North Jersey.  

The $200 you spend will help with your learning curve which you do not want to get from the CPA at $350/hr.

I know how to use the basic features of QBO, as I do my own expense tracking, but my Bookkeeper is needed for the more complex entries (Loans, capital balances, reconciliation, data entry from PM monthly statements.)I spend almost 8k per year in QBO and Bookkeeping costs (Not including my accountant or tax prep.)

Less waste, more controlled environment, less surprises. 

The HELOC would act as en emergency way to tap into their equity if needed - as long as they don't spend it unwisely!

My ultimate goal is to become successful with my real estate investments so I don’t have to rely so much on my job and be able to spend more time at home with my soon to be wife and future children.

I wouldn’t buy a house to live in right away, as I need to spend the first 12 months studying the area.

IMO, the best strategy for that type of individual is to purchase residential property in an area they are or can become familiar with; in an area where the neighborhood is “on the rise”, typically where demand exceeds supply and people are spending $$$ on fixing up properties.  

The only thing constant in life is change AND ultimately the only thing we control in life is our Response to what happens.