Using equity / saved money for 2nd investment property.

[Colin Joyce]

I just bought my first 3-Unit multi family home in my hometown. All three units are rented out, and I used a FHA first time home owner for my mortgage. I currently live at home (I'm 23 years old), but I am a engineer on ships who is away from home more then at home. My first 3 Unit I just bought gave me 55k equity after the appraisal and deal. I make good money in my career field as well and have a good amount saved up.

I am looking to buy another 3 unit which I would live in as well, but I am looking for some other opinions on how I should go about it. Should I wait to use a home equity loan for a down payment? Should I leave the equity in my first 3 unit and just use saved money for down payment? Or should I just some of both?

Let me know what you think, it’d be appreciated and any advise helps!