Sounds more like trying to win a popularity contest, aiming to gain votes and likes from people here that also have something against wholesaling.But OK let me play along.Let's fact-check this:OP: "It’ll truly be strange to even hear people and gurus trying to make big money off it."

., are all ideal in my opinion. 

Keep track of those costs this year, they come into play in 2025 when it's in service.

Ideally a HELOC is used for less then a  year project where you can refi or sell to pay back the HELOC. 5 years is a long time, things can happen and if you reduce the cashflow on both properties you'll be increasing the risk and having thinner margins.

Ideally you live there for a while to really know when a deal is a good one or a stinker. 

This plays into the affordability issues for tenants by allowing them to live in nicer neighborhoods for less money, yet I get monthly revenue comparable to short-term rentals.I have also shifted my focus to buying better.

While you might find a lender offering low down payment options, you'll still need cash reserves for repairs, maintenance, emergency fund (ideally 3-6 months of expenses), etc.

Deception and perception play a major negative role.

Money makes you happy only so often.But a good place to work keeps you happy every day you show up.Yes, 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘆 plays a vital role.But 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 you work?

This would be more of a multi-family buy and hold play.