Primary Residence as Jump Off to REI?

[Mitch H.]

I am in the market to purchase my first home in 6-9 mos. It is also my medium/long-term goal to get into Buy n' Hold investing. I anticipate having a smaller amount of free cash flow once I get a mortgage (my rent is well below market right now, plus roomate economics) and I know this will delay my entry into pure REI.

My question is, what about using a HELOC on my primary residence after X years to get into and investment plex? Anyone done this? Would most likely direct all CF to the HELOC until it is paid off...bottom line this would get me in the door.

I'm just a lurker around here and new to giving REI and real thought, so would love to hear why this will work, but especially why it WONT! Hit me.