Additional costs such as closing costs (investment property and home equity loan, vacancy in the beginning, repairs)My main question is: Is a home equity loan a reasonable way to generate money for your first deal? 

Take the lowest comp in the area, - (retail cost repairs) - resonable profit = purchase priceprovide a list of repairs and what those costs are.  

The CAM license will allow you to get an Assistant Property Manager's job to earn some money while you get your Realtor's license and build up your client list. 

They charge 10% on repairs/maintenance I believe.

The issue about security deposit and repairs has been going on since then.

Keep in mind that a low maintenance and repairs number can be a sign of deferred maintenance that you're going to have to pay for when you're the new owner!

Neither property needs any repairs or rehab.

**Reposting based on Davids suggestion... Thanks David!Hi Bigger Pockets!I'm new to the investment world and figured it was about time I come with my hat in hand asking for some help from the community (I've lurked fo...

If there does seem to be a problem with the carpet runner get it repaired or replaced immediately. 

Make a list of any repair items and have a discussion about what you will repair, what you will not repair and how and when you intend to coordinate with them to get it done.