If you are going to be active, and have high conviction in a project with a clearly defined entry/exit strategy then using a HELOC is one of the better sources of capital.But, I continue to have my stance that, on average, folks who use a HELOC to fund the down payment for long-term investments will eventually find themselves in a situation where their portfolios drain their personal financial situations, rather than fueling them. 

The biggest thing to consider is 85% of all people who take out a Heloc will eventually do a cash out refinance in 3 years to consolidate it anyways.

It was a gang not staying at any hotels they were on the beach looking to rob people for drug money.

Consistent with the advice of @Jo Bradley , if I could get through the first couple years financially, keeping current home seems a lot easier than long distance investing...and at least I know what is wrong with my current home (I.e it will eventually need new roof etc). 

Eventually, you'll find a problem that is not that difficult to solve (but kept other buyers away or forced the property to fall out of contract a time or two).You also have to know what a deal looks like.

I currently own two properties in California, and at 21 years old, my goal is to continue purchasing properties and eventually pay them off to achieve financial freedom.I’m considering two options:1.

You will eventually learn that wholesalers with deals will just send you what they've got!

Wishing you luck, Rob.

Personally I am looking to grow in RE and buy a 2nd home in LA/SD and eventually buy a multifamily complex.

I eventually did a refi on it to be able the purchase another property.