specifically AZ, NV TX, UT, WA and CA

Sometimes I have even directed troubled tenants towards assistance programs (such as single moms because there are a lot of programs for them specifically in my area especially).

Dig into reverse mortgages before pulling the trigger on anything, specifically HECM's (FHA product).

I can not name any reasons which are worth the extra effort of investing there compared to sticking to a specific USA market.

There isnt any one magic "cheapest" loan - it will be highly specific to the deal.

What specific concerns or opportunities are you seeing in your market?

I will not comment as to the tax laws and underlying rules - that is a discussion you can have with your tax advisor who presumably you are paying to help you.What I will do is provide practical and business guidance on tracking time.Firstly, there are apps available that can assist with time tracking where you can specifically detail your time, who you met with, etc.

The discipline to run on a budget for a number of years or decades depending on your math, doesn't factor in emergencies or market changes where the HELOC could be used to invest in other places.

Are you attractive tenants that meet your screening criteria readily and keeping them as long as you budget for (vacancy rate)?

Quote from @Austin Wolff: Hey Kegan, I published on article on BiggerPockets specifically to answer this question for people like you (and selfishly for myself):The 10 Best Markets for Your First House HackNone of the states you mentioned are on this list, however.