I've been reading, listening, and self educating through BP over the past couple years and have recently taken that first scary/exciting/emotional roller coaster of a step and purchased my first duplex out of state.

Build a relationship with a title company and fine a resource there that will help educate you. 

Good luck on your real estate education as well!

I'm a bit afraid of using a HELOC, but i think that's because I'm just not educated enough on things yet to be confident enough in my abilities to make it all work.

If you are truly interested in learning how to invest, you need to start by investing in some education.1.

This is a great time to get started bc you can focus on the educational part without feeling like you're missing out much on the actual buying right now. 

Its all about educating yourself and positioning yourself as an expert in the space. 

It may seem like a lot, but if you’re not ready for your first deal and you jump in before being educated it may be your last

As with most things in life, being educated as to risks, and doing things in moderation, is usually a good idea. 

We’ve been working on paying down debt and getting educated.