And let me know if you happen to need an interior designer or someone to do 3D renderings, as well

A heloc could work but youre going to need to pay down that debt somehow.

The down payment requirement to buy an investment property is the biggest barrier to entry into this business, for sure.Gurus out there like to sell the dream of buying real estate with little to no money down, and while it is possible, it's easier said than done.Unless you get into a seller financed deal, a sub-to deal, or can find a private equity partner, you're just going to need to save up some more money before you buy an investment property.

If I knew 1/10 of what he knows or had 1/10 of his money life would be great:)Got to agree and give a lot of credit to @Ned Carey @Don Konipol @James Wise @Russell Brazil and many more. 

However, when writing in a forum and in any type of written communication there are ways to word your responses or statements that will not come off in a negative tone to the recipient.

If you are going to need to do outside work, especially painting and landscaping, get to it now.

Those two cities are growing everyday and its going to be a sellers market because the employees are going to need a place to live and with Dallas having less than a two month of supply of homes available just means there is not many homes out there. 

You’re probably going to need a co-signer.  

Just to set the tone, this is my friend's family, and leaving them out to fend for themselves is not an option being considered. 

I think it's important to set the standard and tone for what you expect from your tenants.