Here are a few ideas to explore that might help you get closer to homeownership in San Diego without selling:Cash-Out Refinance:Refinancing one or both of your El Centro properties could free up additional cash for a down payment without selling.

Are there additional steps you take when screening applicants, or do you take fewer steps?

If you stick with the larger down payments, you’ll have more stability and less risk, especially if the market shifts, but it will slow down how quickly you can buy additional properties.

Additionally, there’s always a risk that any pet-related damages could be hidden under furniture or otherwise concealed, potentially leaving us to cover the costs if the security deposit is fully depleted by other expenses (e.g., damages or unpaid rent).

Ask one additional question you "forgot" to ask at the meeting.Scan and toss any relevant business cards you picked up.Never feel pressured at these meetings.

Additionally I would add a benefit for you is that you're in great area to be able to invest locally and can invest in your own back yard as they say.

On the positive side, it seems like you have a good potential BRRRR that you can use to purchase additional properties.

Are you saying the current property being exchanged has a debt of $200k and you need an additional $200k to purchase the new property? 

Additionally, collecting the tenant’s portion of the rent (not covered by Section 8) can be difficult.3.

Additionally, the study should contain 13 principal elements.WHAT ARE THE ELEMENTS INCLUDED IN A COST SEGREGATION STUDY REPORT?