I want the cash needed for the next project to be around 25k so I can use the rest as reserves/emergency fund. 

Opportunity Zones.As I follow NREI ( National Real Estate Investor) Experts are predicting that Opportunity Zones are going to be on the top of HMW (High-Net-Worth) Investors list with multifamily, marijuana, retail and industrial are emerging as some of the key areas to watch IN 2019.

I suggest you look at some other markets in the midwest , such as large metro areas of Kansas City, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, or some smaller emerging markets such as Dayton, OH to name a few.

He said he would ask for an emergency inspection from HOA first.

So you want to do the long term mortgage first, and perhaps use a HELOCs for an emergency fund.  

- What are the hottest trends and emerging technologies in the industry?

Market for deals on this day, do all non-emergency repairs this day. 

For your immediate next steps I'd recommend getting your personal finances in good shape (paying off consumer debt, increasing credit score, living on a budget, saving a healthy emergency fund and possible first down payment) and meeting more like minded individuals (which you're already trying to do) by attending local RE meetups and using websites like BP.

With spreadsheets, I can change one number (unexpected emergency expense) and have the impact felt throughout my life instantly.

Think of it as diversification, retirement $, emergency funds, etc.