They're pretty intimidating to use, but not that bad once you get the hang of them.  

I have a place I'm considering selling next year, but I can't help but wonder if it's usually, or always, better to just hang onto a property and HELOC to use the equity rather than pay transaction costs and taxes.

There are costs associated with education to obtain your license, taking the test, licensing with your state, and joining a board to become a Realtor (if you want to be able to claim the title).Then, you will need to hang your license with a broker. 

I’m shopping for the next:)I think it’s time to start hanging out with you guys!

Hanging out with other local investors and asking a lot of questions is also a great way to learn, particularly about your immediate area.

Also the next thing you need to do is get property radar @Sean OToole  is the founder and hangs out right up the road from you in the Truckee area.. his APP is hands down the number one tool for finding property that I have ever seen..

I'm still trying to get the hang of these calculators.

I've quickly become a Cowboys fan and when I'm not working you can find me out on the golf course, watching sports, and hanging out with my friends.

I personally would not do this.. as to many cooks in the kitchen type of thing.. but I get it.. one advantage for sure is the accounting needed for PPMs yearly and the layer of SEC regulations IE when it goes bad and they do on occasion when your the sponsor of a PPM you have some pretty big matzah balls hanging out there..  

Once you get the hang of things, then you could venture out into other markets.