This is a space I have extensive experience in.Good luck. 

With out doing extensive/ expensive renovation.

What if you're competing with a 45 year old broker owner in his prime with extensive experience?

Challenges for this one is that the winter can slow things down extensively Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

That included an extensive amount of earthwork as the land that we had was not most ideal.

Be sure to check for pre-payment penalties, and extension availability/fees. 

Considering your HELOC is a 4% interest I would personally consider it an "extension" of your mortgage.

As I view distressed properties in my target area several properties have met the criteria but the outdated Google street view didn't show the current condition....in a nutshell, its has extensive fire damage.

I came to the decision I’m going to pay off my debts and just be debt free for awhile then invest once I save up again it’ll only be about about another 6 months before I can buy another property just a little extension

I would probably ask for a bi-monthly inspection, take extensive photos, and require any damage to be paid for.