Quote from @Sonseeahray Harvin: General suggestion: Google people before you trust their replies to things :-) Oh boy!

@Vijay Singh SambasivamI would suggest speaking to local banks, and credit unions.

But I would suggest exploring all options to make sure you are getting the best rate and terms.

I love that you have specific goals for 2025 - I believe if we think it, write it, say it, and share it our goals are 10x more likely to come to fruition.Are you able to do option 2 and just house hack a 2-4 unit building and use a renovation loan which allows you to put down 3.5-5%I highly suggest getting to some local chicago meetup groups (we have an in person one on the 17th)...here is BPs list: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...I also have a full list of the chicago meetups that I can share with you too if that'd be helpful.

Any suggestions on areas?

I would suggest if you had not already to put some of your money into a ROTH IRA (maximum is $7,000 per individual) and invest in VTSAX. 

@Venka Pulla Many smaller PMCs are unprofessional, they can also be vindictive.So, suggest you get all the info you can from your Owner Portal before terminating them.Also, hire a new PMC BEFORE terminating the current PMC.Then, terminate and work closely with the new PMC to get tenant payments switched over and whatever documentation is missing.Hopefully, you'll screen for a new PMC better than you did to pick the current one!

Since you’re committed to staying close to family, I’d suggest focusing on properties that might need a little work but have potential for appreciation in your market.

I have never been shy of facing challenges and I truly believe knowledge is power (something my grandfather taught me at a young age)I really want to learn everything there is to learn about realestate and am driven and hungry.Thanks in advance for any suggestions or recommendations.

Any suggestions or recommendations out there for best rate HELOC (not 2nd mortgage).