Pull out a spreadsheet and go through the tools everyone mentions to run some comparables and take note of photos, amenities. 

Condo a bit different - 7% note, but we furnished it for a MTR, and tenant is excellent and deciding to stay longer.

As others have noted credit unions are generally competitive on HELOC's. 

I am hoping to make connections to learn more about this market, which neighborhoods to focus on, as well as learn some pro tips as I begin my investing journey.To note, I have begun the loan pre-approval process and have a dedicated agent that is eager to find me a great property. 

You could put it into a note, after finding a local broker in your area (search for hard money lenders in your local market if you aren't sure where to start). 

I am looking to purchase more notes.

Side note, I listened to your podcast with Ned.

Target ReturnsWhile target returns are crucial, these should be discussed only with investors—not brokers or others helping you find deals.Sample Investment CriteriaHere’s an example of well-defined CCC:Location: Primary and secondary cities in the Southeast with population growth.Type & Class: Class C garden-style or walk-up workforce housing with repositioning opportunities.Age: 1980s construction or newer (case-by-case for older).Price: $5M–$12M, requiring $1.5M–$3M in funds.Size: 100+ units.Cap Rates: Market rates.Roof Type: Pitched roofs preferred.Value-Add: Opportunities for improvements or better management.Why This MattersBy creating crystal clear criteria, you:Avoid wasting time on deals that don’t align with your goals.Build trust with brokers and partners by demonstrating a focused investment strategy.Increase your chances of finding deals that meet your financial and operational objectives.I'll be posting each chapter as I go through them so you can follow along from my notes and we can discuss different strategies.

Just note that if you want to put the property into an LLC and have a mortgage on it, you will need to talk with your provider to see if this is possible without refinancing.

As a side note, my wife and I work full time and are looking at strategies that are less time intensive.