(long-term) Involve in slightly larger real estate projects (e.g. apartment, storage, development etc.) while not quitting my job (yes I kinda enjoy my day job).Challenges:1.

I know that's the long game, but would you recommend getting involved in multi-family rentals or other strategies, in the context of my long term goal? 

One needs to understand SEC regs around syndications and GP compensation.

While I am still saving money and deciding between moving out there now and "househacking" which would involve a job/career switch or buying as an investment property, I have a trip planned for next week to Nashville.

Even if somebody came to him for help, he'd turn it down because the significant time involved (even will billing for it) and the costs to the client are prohibitive.There are lots of rules, I don't bother to know them all since this is avenue is too extreme for me, around IRA's and 401k's (and the various other tax advantaged accounts). 

Risks from someone who has been involved in something similar?

I am involved with quite a few mix-use and multi-family projects where historically bank originated construction to permanent financing was used.

Pre-approval strengthens your position as a serious buyer.Research Loan Options: Explore different loan programs and understand their pros and cons.

@Trevor ToftThe decision to use a HELOC on your primary residence for real estate investing involves considering various factors, and it's great that you're evaluating the potential outcomes.

So in your examples the first option would be commensurate with what we typically expect if I am understanding correctly.