I used to do tile full time and I've done quite a bit of remodeling in the homes I've lived in so I was comfortable doing those things. 

Normally as long as the returns are solid and you could sell to another investor even if the market turned I feel comfortable purchasing.

Nothing solid in Clemmons - we simply don't know enough about these places (schools, safety, etc) to feel comfortable enough to invest).

Fully landscaped the backyard to add a fire pit and comfortable common space.

Hi Micah,If you really need to get the capital back out and are comfortable losing the minimum bid that was paid then self redeem.

With our other assets, I am quite comfortable that I can withstand a GR type impact to housing.You need to balance your comfort level with the benefit of leverage.

With that being said, I do see real estate investing as an opportunity to secure a comfortable retirement, and allow me to spend more time with my future family.

The title company will not assist you and Seller's attorney's will not argue/debate with your Agent as your legal representative.Many buyers in other states are told that they don't need an attorney until there is a problem and then they realize they need an attorney.Since you are a first time buyer, you should hire an attorney and when you feel more comfortable, you may continue buying without hiring one.I see no reason why you don't start contacting and interviewing real estate agents right now. 

If I'm satisfied with both then I'm comfortable. 

I have learned variability in Heloc's are common. but that seems like a large range. especially since there is no "safe period" where the interest rates wont change for so many years like an ARM.The same lender could also give a cash out Refi at 100% but that would really increase my debt service on my current house to higher than would make me comfortable. not only would my principle go up but i would also have to increase my flood insurance coverage by 50k which is a substantial cost.