Build a solid team and evaluate deals carefully using tools like BiggerPockets calculators to ensure strong cash flow and returns.Good luck!

Take a look at the BiggerPockets Market Finder tool to start looking at different markets based on your goals - https://www.biggerpockets.com/markets2.

Refi: The piggyback HELOC is a good tool for quick access to capital, but since it's been delayed and you're already tired, it might be worth waiting for a combined refi and HELOC.

Be sure to check out the free tools BP provides to help analyze deals you may have and also market insights.

I always say 'I don't care what cap rate I buy at, I care what cap rate I can turn it into'I built Market Analysis and Sales Comps tools for my local SoCal market that will let you analyze the current or terminal property & units, from wherever you get your deals from:Sales Comps & ARV estimate:Sales market analysis:Rental market analysis:Would love to discuss how to make your extension that much better!

Having that background knowledge from being a CPA will be a great tool as you get into real estate, as I am sure you already know!

Running detailed cash flow projections, factoring in their management fees and expected rent increases (you can use some of the great BiggerPockets Pro tools like the calculators to do this!)

QBO isn’t made for REI out of the box, however, it is an amazing tool and really has amazing reporting when set up correctly.  

The equivalent tools to Priceline have been in place for the transition you describe to have occurred 20 years ago.

CoC is an, all things being equal, comparison tool between properties.