In this scenario, it could look like no money down to you even though your partner is investing a regular down payment and there is traditional financing involved.

Most do HELOCs on primary residence but not rentals for some reason. 

I bought one rental per yeat worth about $110-$130k with 25% down every other year as a straight rental and 10% down the other year as a primary and then moved.

I have been meaning to attend some of the area events, but seem to always be traveling or otherwise committed.I think the primary issue is alignment among partners.

It is a VA loan, which I read is more often assumable than a traditional loan, but as far as my specific case, I don't know. 

I am a complete newbie when it comes to real estate investing, as my only experience in real estate to date has been purchasing two primary residences.

I understand that FHA loans are only allowed to be used on a primary residence, so I'm wondering if there's anything illegal about getting a 3.5% down FHA loan and moving into the property, then eventually moving out and turning it into a rental.

It seems like cash flow is your primary focus, if you're willing to forego some advantages of real estate such as appreciation, I recommend taking a look at note investing.

My goals for the next three to six months are to purchase a duplex, rent my primary home, and flip a property.

Wholesaling is pushed by many "salespeople" but I personally would not pick that as the primary resource for making a good living even though it does not require much cash.