Hi there,So I've been remodeling homes for a number of years and want to move into building custom homes and I was hoping to hear from people who have maybe made the same leap or any advise/things to look for in making this transition.

A lot of times, these types of lifestyle choices will start limiting you down very quickly to specific areas, and since you are going to be living in the property, are likely to have a heavy weight on the neighborhoods.  

@Kristina Taylor you have so many moving parts here that's its difficult to give you advise. 

What specific steps should a new investor take to make sure distress is only cosmetic and not structural if we have no construction background?

Anything specific in your plan or locality that would force this?

For your first unit, unless hiring outside management which means giving up 20% of earnings, you're going to have quite a hurdle to operate a place remotely.I don't necessarily think looking at market specific data around the country and thinking you can just dive into that market and do well makes much sense.

I know you will find a ton of encouraging and helpful people here.Regarding HELOC I suggest you connect with my good friend @Michael Barbari...I believe they can still do up to 90% which is 10% more than most banks.If you need any other specific connections here in Chicago I am happy to provide them. 

I guess were not sure the best route to take and specifically how to take it.

Depending on your specific situation, they may or may not apply. 

Be sure to ask specific questions and you'll get specific answers.