Welcome @Whitney Zelee..One of the first things i did when i started investing 2 years ago was getting the real estate license and that definitely helped me, especially with learning the market.Don't forget to join a local REIA.I personally like the Black Diamond networking event in Waltham. 

Leverage the fact that you have access to the MLS and a solid network to find these deals.

Ann Hello and Welcome your at a Great Place on BP an Lots Of Information on Wholesaling make sure you Network an Join some meetups & your Local Real Estate Club in Your area as well.

Always good to have friends and networking capabilities. 

The #1 thing I can recommend to you is to go to local real estate meetups to network with like-minded people. #2 is to read everything on BP, listen to the podcasts, buy some books, to get the education you need so  you can move forward and achieve your goals.

It seems this would provide invaluable on-the-job learning and networking while maintaining a much needed income stream. 

just start reaching out to some of the groups around town and network.  

It's an option that can be used to get into the business, but if you should do it can only be determined by you and your husband, possibly with the help of a CPA or similar professional. 20-45k is generally enough to get started, depending on what you're getting into and where you are.If you are going to be risking your primary residence with a HELOC, my suggestion is that you make sure you could handle the possibility of that money going into a failing investment and getting lost.

I'm a SD resident entering the game and buying two SFH's in the KC, MO suburbs and am looking for recommendations on local (San Diego) CPAs that specialize in REI, and specifically have a knowledgeset for investors with holdings outside California.In addition, as someone starting out with their first holdings, any recommendations on things to specifically knock out right off the bat with my new CPA would be much appreciated!

Welcome to BP @Dan Brown You can meet nearby investors by networking with them here https://www.biggerpockets.com/meet