The Fed is just 1 branch of the body whole, it's not the whole.

Even without a branch there they still can work in your area.

I currently hold a 9-5 doing IT consulting, but wanted to branch out and learn more about Real Estate and do a bit of networking.

Since then, I've branched off and implemented different strategies with books like Short-Term Rental, Long-Term Wealth, 30-Day Stay, Recession Proof Real Estate Investing. 

Which branch are you?

As for the Heloc, a private bank would be best as opposed to a big branch like the wells Fargos and US Banks for example.

Now that I have a solid understanding of buy and hold duplexes, I am starting to branch out to a larger mixed use building and doing my first flip.The takeaway - your toolbox may start with 1 tool, but you can add more over time.

Seems they are branching out into everything now.

I have read about all the lending options that are discussed here on the forum and my question is should I go to my bank or a bank branch near where I live to discuss lending options...I intend to invest out of state...or do I speak with a bank branch that is local to the investment?

I may have to look into branching out that direction because in my area it is tight.