Which leave novices guessing making mistakes or losing lots of money.

One mistake can cost you thousands or millions.

Will I make mistakes?

I've made mistakes,  but I do not regret self management. 

The mistakes that stick out are primarily from the 1st year, especially renting a so-so unit to so-so tenants.

I made the big mistake of leaving hometown EP, living in 3 states and 2 countries and then returning.  

So here's where we stand:- Value of the home is ~$140,000- Loan on the home is ~$135,000 - this is where I made my mistake with financing -- I did the whole borrow 20% to put down to avoid PMI with a second mortgage.  

I was just excited to get started in investing and it seemed like a good deal on paper but I didn't do my due diligence which was my mistake and I take full responsibility for that.  

I'm sure I'll be able to help you avoid a mistake or two.

I'll just summarize your points:- Tried to get HELOC to pay off CC debt - failed- Made a mistake of paying off mortgage instead of CC debt- I came into some money selling off a property....Anyone reading this would think "she's going to use it to pay off CC debt".