Also, if I use a HELOC on my third rental investment for the 20% downpayment on a conventional loan, is that smart to do?

They should not use any third parties for this.

Payment may not be made by third party checks.

The third is of course observing these criteria in order to protect the two of us. 

Have a third party verify completion of work when possible, or include provisions for photo/video walkthroughs in the scope of work.

Investment Info:

Small multi-family (2-4 units) buy & hold investment in Crestview.

Purchase price: $105,000

Property includes two SFR houses on an acre of land. One is a 2/1, and the other is a 3/2....

Purchase price: $131,000 Cash invested: $32,750 Converted single-family home to two units and a third unit in the rear of the property. 3 bed, 2 bed, and 1 bed.

Investment Info:

Single-family residence buy & hold investment.

Purchase price: $400,000

Cash invested: $400,000

Beautiful southside home featuring an open floor plan with 4 bedrooms, (two master...

Investment Info:

Single-family residence buy & hold investment.

Purchase price: $400,000

Cash invested: $400,000

Beautiful home with an open floor plan. 4 bedrooms, (2 master suites), 3 baths, ki...

I am an investor with full time job interested in obtaining a real estate license mostly for access the MLS and other deals as well as being able to advocate for myself without using a third party.