Consolidating several mortgage loans into one

[Sandile Tyini]

I have 5 properties: my family residence and 4 rental properties. My banker suggested that I consolidate the loans on these properties into one loan at the estimated current value of all the properties. That way I will have some liquid equity which I can draw on any time to make new investments and to finance any other operational costs. I would like some comments on whether this is a good idea. Please advise.