Section 8 is a program focused primarily on tenants and not so much on properties.

I was on Michael Zuber's podcast last sunday, but I don't think I can post links.Here is my co-living portfolio in Arizona.

Keep learning but focus on your income and getting rid of your credit card debt/any other junk debt.

A Heloc is loan that can become a sore thumb if not used correctly and can hurt the property it's on and the users credit.If you are going to use the funds for a down payment then a Cash out refinance is what you want to do to get the cash in hand. 

Follow-on, any recommendations on current attractive RE investment strategies are also welcome.

I also plan on adding more partnerships to my portfolio possibly this year also.Appreciate any advice, thank you!

And maybe let mum build herself something on it.

I would love if a CPA could reach out to me on this post or by direct message that I can speak with over the phone to get an answer to my full in depth question and situation to see if it is possible. 

The exemption can be prorated based on the time you actually lived there.

Also, It depends on what real estate investment strategy you want to join.There's a lot of them!