If you're thinking of putting it in things that are not zero risk (hedge funds, real estate), then hopefully you are seeking a risk premium (not a new concept around here, but there are new lurkers reading this), else just leave the equity in the house.

I also am seeking a real estate agent license to better serve the investor community and become an "investor friendly agent" in my area. 

Seek a CPA to give proper advise.

I just wanted to reach out to everyone on BP to seek some advice.

@Korie Apgar, is there a criteria the bank looks for to make the decision to appraise it as a commercial building and base the appraisal on cap rate and lease values or is it up to the individual to seek out a specific lender that will do a commercial lending refi on the multifamily?

When seeking a mentor you want to bring VALUE to that relationship.   

Im also seeking a mentor for my 1st 1 or 2 deals and go from there.

In fact, as a flipper or rental owner, I would not seek to invest in A neighborhoods.

I think I'm going to formulate some questions for my potential partner, seek an attorney to advise an review documents, and seek people within my personal network who may be able to be my eyes on the ground. 

You should seek legal advice and go from there.