For example, I generally don't care about anything but actual cash flow, so the other numbers like ROI and IRR don't weigh very heavily on my decisions. 

A while ago my mom informed me the owner was in a nursing home so I figured I'd better make a decision on the house.

When you operate a business out of fear your decisions are not based on logic or fact.

I'm just starting out in real estate can't seem to find a duplex property do anybody out there recommend buying a one-family and me living it for a year and taken out a HELOC or refinancing and buying a duplex

The Heloc is variable rate interest.Because of the small loan, the Lender fees is high and It tough to take a decision to move forward with loan or cash purchase.I would like to hear from you if you had such situations and how you handled

Very useful, because it can be a part of the decision-making process.

I am also a "newbie" from South Jersey.A couple books I enjoyed:  Rich Dad Poor Dad & Set For Life by Scott TrenchI wish you the best of luck!

Excellent decision, @David Krainert!

Now that I will start working in a fixed position I obviously get more freedom in my decisions when lending with the bank.

After reading this I'm still not sure, but I will make a better more educated decision now.