I've been investing in the stock market for 30+ years, but am at the point where I'm ready to diversify more into real estate.I've been lurking on the forums here for quite some time and I am amazed at the value of the posts and level of knowledge that exists here.

Also wouldn't mind building a relationship to team up on a project. 

Yep it really comes down to risk you want to take on.

Honestly, big banks have terrible rates on mortgage.Work with a broker, they are your best bet; pricing beats big banks 9 times out of 10.

As a person who is new to Real Estate and Real Estate investing, is it best to save up cash or do a cash out refi on your personal home to purchase a 2nd home (1st rental)?  

I would really appreciate if you could point me to some of the resources, especially forums focused on the Seattle area.

Can you keep it rented on a regular basis? 

Hey Karl, @Karl SzymanskiI can definitely understand the temptation to do something close to home, but it likely will depend on whether you are planning to manage these properties yourself (which I personally, wouldn't since you are simply just buying yourself a new job) and where the best forecasted ROI is at. 

Based on the age, limit, etc

It is ok to not know but it's good you're on here in the forums trying to learn.