I have the chance to do this right with an investment mindset.

Nice that your first property is a 6-unit.

You can also do a cash out refi with a DSCR (I'm in the process of doing that now) and reclaim some of your capital (75% LTV is what I have). 

Hi All - I know that in general it is a good idea to avoid HOAs for STR/MTR rentals.

They likely do not have access to those easier sources of capital though because of their shady business history and practices.Good investors do not need your money or partnership.

Many think it’s strange to be scared of success, or they make fun of me for it, and I don’t understand it myself.I genuinely want to be rich and financially free; part of me believes I can do it, but deep down, my mind or whatever doesn’t.

The homebuilder could have figured it out how to maintain overall grading/drainage of the site, but it was more so needed to satisfy the City.  

Even with an all cash purchase, one would be lucky to get a meager 5% on your cash.

There is a lot here that he needs go over, such as are you cashing out, looking to lock rate, is there pre pay, do you want community or agency?

It’s fantastic that you're interested in exploring real estate as a way to use your free time productively.