You're right at the time of life (and you've done an incredible job of putting together your retirement nest egg) when some repositioning is called for. 

Ive been doing a lot of research in the past 2 weeks about real estate investing and am very motivated to take the jump from just learning to action in the near future.

(this property is now off market) This sparked that REI motivation and mindset that I discovered a few years back.

Normally , all 3 things (problem to solve with the decision maker, AND within $30-50k per unit price range) must be met before they set appointments with me.However, I told my team that starting June 1st I want them to start setting appointments even though we are not within price range as long as the property meets our criteria and the DM has a pain point or motivation to sell (other than price).The reason why I'm doing this is because I just want my team to feel what an appointment feels like.

Honestly I really can't think of a different partner that would maximize both our strengths and keep us motivated along the way as well as my own wife. 

Hey Bigger Pockets fam,I am a new investor just starting out and trying to network while also attempting to build my rockstar team.I was wondering if it would be smart to take someone who is motivated and kind of train him into what I'm seeking in a PM when I get to that point?

Maybe she can help cover expenses and motivate the remaining renter to move out.

Our business is based on dealing with motivated sellers. 

A refi can also be nice as it puts cash in your pocket and gets you really motivated to go find an investment.To answer your question about a lender liking the HELOC for the down payment I wouldn't see an issue as long as the lender knew in advance of approving you for the loan as it would change your DTI.If the HELOC is big enough to outright purchase the property you can just refi then payoff the HELOC rinse and repeat (this is my favorite).

(this property is now off market) This sparked that REI motivation and mindset that I discovered a few years back.