From my experience, at our local level, I have networked with a few small lenders, i.e. credit unions or small-scale banks to see what lending models and options they would do.Make sure that you can stay under at least 70% of ARV with acquisition/repairs/fix costs to recover your equity.  

Looking forward to connecting with you all at a higher level once I gain more knowledge about REI.

It's coming out of the front of the HVAC at about eye level, goes straight for about two feet, does a 90 degree turn (all still at eye level), goes another two feet, does another 90 degree turn and then sort of gradually works its way across the next four feet until it disappears up where the ceiling meets the far wall.  

If that part can change then this appreciation could level off.

HELOC's are not the fodder of 2nd lien street level inventory.  

I would rather get en entry level duplex in LA.

I was lucky enough to find an entry level job at a tech company and stayed with them for a few years before I left to start another business. 

You will learn from experienced investors about how they started with different levels of help/funds available. 

I think the level of relationship likely determines how risky you can be with this move.

Square footage includes the footprint of above grade levels  (and in some cases walkout basements).