I would not advise trying to flip out of your area until you have serious experience but since you have family in the area that hopefully you can trust you may be ok assuming your cousin knows what he or she is doing. 

Anyone’s opinions or advise would be greatly appreciated on how and where to even begin.

Any advise is appreciated.

I’ve also been advised to get a revolving business line of credit to fund the 20% down that most hard money lenders are requiring nowadays (especially for new REI) What’re your thoughts on lines of credit?

I still wouldn't advise studying something that bores you, though.

So network with other LOCAL investors and see if you can lean on them for advise on who to use.

I bought the lake house on contract following your advise @Brenden Mitchum.

., for your first investment, I would advise against getting into something that needs big refurbish costs!

I would advise against plowing cashflow back into a property- in 15 years you should have ample equity.

Would you advise to get the mortage loan through his information ?