I can probably use about 60k of that as a HELOC (home equity line of credit).  

Small bank or credit union that is portfolio lender is your best bet.

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I would love to hear some tips and advice for breaking into that arena when you have a chance :)

If you have a salary and a decent credit score, you should have no problem getting a loan for a deal. 

Again I’m moving slow trying not to get in a mess early in the game.I've owned both since August 2016I have ok credit nothing to write home about, 650/680About 5k liquid.ThanksStewart

I'll have $25k cash and the same in credit cards available and was looking at Trenton, NJ.  

You could get an FHA loan of 3.5% down (you can put that on a credit card or line or credit).You could do a joint venture with someone who has money.

I was wondering if any agents out there would like to share any tips or best practices that help out with day to day operations (such as CRM software, fax or call services, listing management tools, how to start lead generation).

Work on improving your credit score and building your cash reserves.Do you intend to house hack upon arrival?