I would love any pointers or specific advice from anyone who has experience in the industry! 

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone give you a referral, don’t make the mistake of assuming that PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.We also can’t believe how many owners hire the first PMC they speak with!

They all seem to have a high degree of integrity.If you're wondering about my level of experience, I used to invest in real estate in NC.

To share my experience (especially with Zillow) you'll need to be patient OR post on multiple sites.

I have some experience with HELOCs, but usually for smaller amounts and I am wondering if I can take out more than $100k in cash from the HELOC. 

Begin with something manageable to gain experience and build your confidence. 

Your maximum allowable purchasing power is going to be entirely dependent upon your experience, liquidity, and leverage you can get - which will be deal specific and investor specific.

He is experience, but not in Detroit.

To grow your network and get insight from the experiences of others, go to local real estate meetups, networking events, and seminars.Seek out a mentor with knowledge of subject-to transactions and wholesaling.

In my experience, most private money lenders will very rarely lend money on a deal in which the deal maker does not put any money down.