Save cash earned for CapEx, or use to pay down loan faster

[Ronald H.]

Hey everyone! I am completely new here and this is my first post. So, I am very “green” in real estate investing.

Here's my question: should an buy-and-hold rental investor save money allocated for Capital Expenditures in the bank, or use that money to pay down the loan more quickly? The reason I ask is because I had the thought that an investor could just get a HELOC to pay for CapEx when it occurs. Plus, paying down the principal faster will lower overall interest paid.

Is this the right train of thought, or is this a rookie mistake?