We bought at 375k, are currently renovating the basement, and have income of $4725 (before utilities, insurance, and debt service) right now.

Understanding Commercial LoansProperties with 5 or more units typically fall under commercial real estate loans, which have different requirements compared to residential loans.Requirements for a Commercial LoanCreditworthiness: Both your personal and business credit scores will be considered.Down Payment: Typically, 20-30% down payment is required.Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR): Lenders will assess the property's income relative to the debt payments.

Maybe you mean debt to income?  

I know debt can help you scale faster.

If I sold, I could be debt-free and have extra money each month to invest elsewhere.

(I can say that as someone from massachusetts)But people need to be careful as a CFD is consumer debt and if the borrower contests - all that interest they owe you could be wiped out as if you are not sending statements, I believe the law is then interest could be wiped out and considered invalid.

Consider options like Bank Statement Loans, Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) Loans, and co-signing.

It may not entirely make sense to go from a 30 year mortgage to 15 year mortgage if your debt to income ratio is tight in any sense.

if the property is in Oregon they need state MLS and NMLS registration for ANY loan on a 1 to 4 unit regardless of purpose.thanks appreciate your feedback- we're only pocking $40k after paying off another heloc and debt. need to finish a big electrical job on the house, etc. so can't save up, but still have over $100K equity.

Debt: Seller FinanceEquity: Raised capital from friends and family How did you add value to the deal?