I could also pay more monthly cash out of pocket as my finances allow it but I'd prefer create cash-flow and put that extra cash into other savings or investments.Any other pros and cons of shorter vs. longer term HELOANs?

@Karen HossWelcome to Bigger Pockets.

My broker is estimating around $1000/month expenses on a 30-year, I would put down 25% and after origination fees and  closing costs I would be looking at $45K out of pocket. 

There are other pockets of opportunity within Boston though, from pockets in Dorchester/Roxbury to areas like Roslindale.

@Kelley PhanWelcome to Bigger Pockets.

I know it’s hard for noobs to get in the game...I’m there myself.

I knew nothing about the basics of real estate and after confiding in my dad that this is what I wanted to do he pointed me to Bigger Pockets, which I then learned by all the educational tools that not only can I do what I know I would love and enjoy doing but that it will give me a life I'd want for myself and my family that no other job could do for me. 

@Steve KolozsiWelcome to Bigger Pockets.

Real estate is also a game of survival and its more important you are in the game year in and year out than to get wiped out rather quickly.

GAME CHANGER!