It can serve as a valuable learning experience and help you become familiar with the intricacies of the field.

Not that an LLC is the most complex thing in the world to create, but to PROPERLY maintain that LLC add a bit more intricacy to an already foreign process. 

There's also typically a larger market of renters and buyers for single-family homes.Given your goals and the HELOC strategy, starting with multi-units might give you a better cash flow to service the HELOC, but it's essential to analyze both options in-depth.Leveraging Licenses and VA Loan:Licensed Lender: Having a lending background gives you an edge in understanding the financial intricacies, which can be advantageous in structuring deals.Realtor: As an active realtor, you'll have access to the MLS, understand contracts, and can save on commissions when buying/selling.VA Loan: VA loans offer fantastic benefits, like zero down payment and competitive rates.

Whether it's tips on property acquisition, managing multiple units, financing strategies, or navigating the intricacies of the market, any guidance would be greatly appreciated. 

I guess you're right that I should post in a more PA specific forum but I am new to this (2nd post) and haven't yet learned all of the intricacies of the BP world.

I hire people who have worked through the process and understand the intricacies of the San Diego multifamily ADU regulations, which is a pretty specific niche. 

This is the person that you will try to emulate their systems and models before you can take your own track.For personal finance, I would go out to find a personal adviser or tax adviser at least that can give you all the intricacies of legal paperwork.

I don't honestly know much about Canadians investing in the US markets and all it's intricacies but I'm sure there's more than enough info here on BP to learn from.

People sometime don't read between the lines or understand the intricacies of working with an Architect.

Each trade has it's own intricacies and rules they have to follow.It would be best on your first couple projects, to partner up with someone experienced, or find, through recommendations, a General Contractor that will help you learn.The first things you should learn is the local codes, code enforcement, and order of operations.