This is because I’m not sure if I need to become a REA or a wholesaler while I am making money in my fulltime cyber security job (because I feel like I should).

We were able to have our Management Company, SI Associates, secure a terrific tenant, we refinanced 100% of our funds back out + additional funds towards the next project.

**For clarity, properties move so fast its easier for me to lock up the deal and secure the financing prior to bringing in a partner***Thanks!!

Go through the lending process of providing documents to the lender, work with an insurance broker to secure insurance for the property, connect with property management companies and choose one to manage the property, the appraisal will be completed, the down payment (20-25%) will be wired to escrow, close on the property and there you go, you are now the owner of your first investment property. 

I always get 1st months rent, last months rent and security deposit at lease signing.

Money goes further the farther you are from nyc but you need to stay within the commute time of 1 hour to GCT to secure tenants regularly.

They were evicted September 30th and owe more then what the security deposit covers.

I have a good understanding of how a HELOC and HEL works, however, I have no clue what are the steps to take once the funds are secured. 

Not sure what unit count you're considering but the nice thing about jumping above 4 units is the bank will put more weight on the performance of the property than your own personal finances. 

I would say if you can JV or find a way to get experience to start that is the most secure way to get into RE.