As long as your choice is based on the factors you listed (income meets/exceeds your requirements, references, pet), it is okay. 

Smart use of your commission. 

Two books I like are HOLD: How to Find, Buy, and Rent Houses for Wealth and The Book on Rental Property Investing: How to Create Wealth and Passive Income Through Smart Buy & Hold Real Estate Investing.

The primary drawback of a HELOC is a variable interest rate, which today could be double a fixed mortgage, as much as 10%.The best choice really comes down to a personal decision for what the plans are for the money, and how long the funds will be needed. 

I would advise the complaining party that there is/was no evidence of smoking in the adjoining apartment she referenced and you have no choice but to consider the matter closed.

The goal is to establish a relationship that you can leverage for years to come.You should inquire about rates, terms, and requirements when contacting a potential lender.You can use any lender licensed to do business in Indiana, but some banks only lend in certain areas by their own choice.

I know this is not "your" decision, but if your wife shares your interest in real estate, I would encourage her to consider her life choice like a real estate deal. 

Maybe I'm just not that smart or hard-working, but I can't imagine diving into a Multi successfully out of the gate.

@Simon W. wins the best advice award; If you have enough in your budget and enough supporting assets to hire an actual seasoned real estate controller, do itYour question is almost like your trying get your head around as if there is an owner with 2 choices: either hire employees or sub it out to a vendor.

If I do it wont be for long, and if I don't then I made the right choice anyway.