But, once I pay off my first property I could take a loan out against the property for additional cheap properties.

I have heard on different podcasts that one of the best introductory ways to get started learning REI and potentially getting a mentor is to offer your services.

My neighbor said he thought there might be a free government provided service but he can't remember the name.   

I had just received a 30k down payment from another owner financed deal and I wanted to get a “second home” and get some additional rental income.

Establish the value based on your own market analysis.Your property is a rental once it is placed in service - typically the date it is advertised as available.Check your home owners insurance policy and make sure it covers rental operations - I expect it does not.

Pulling Equity will affect CF in the short term, but may allow you to leverage into additional units adding cash flow & equity over time.

I've realized that my carpet is way behind the Woolite carpet stain remover stage. But, I'm also not going to replace the carpet right now. I tried vinegar/baking soda, dollar store cleaners, and Woolite (worked, b...

Assuming I could qualify financially (primary income plus FHA allowed rental income contribution from additional leased units), when I become the owner of the property, would that prevent me from using a FHA 203b to house hack a second property?

I am interested in Purchasing rental properties To create additional income.

Pretty much the only way to get funds into a retirement account is via earned income.Of course, growing it inside an account is a different issue.With those additional properties you say you are helping your kids buy, are you putting your name on Title?