Looking to hear your insights on what makes a lender great (or not-so-great)!

We are planning for a HELOC to support our purchase of a new home.

Hi Kwanza,I guess it's subjective and depends what you compare it to, but Maryland and Baltimore City in particular are very tenant friendly.Baltimore has a wide variety of multifamily options, but you need to have a really clear understanding of Baltimore and how much it can change block-by-block.

Having a backup plan, such as a HELOC or alternative financing options, could provide added flexibility.With loans spread across 19 single-family homes, consolidating into a portfolio loan might simplify management and offer greater long-term stability.

Its a growing market, and a great place to invest for flips and rentals.  

It sounds like you have a good start already.

Find a proven strategy and focus on that.

I make it back a few times a year to Rochester as I still have family there.

I'll also give them a list of "must haves" based on comps as well (for example oversized kitchen island, dedicated powder room, minimum 48" hallways, large master closet, lots of windows for natural light, gas fireplace, minimum 10' ceiling in great room, consideration of sun exposure, etc).Also if you give a good architect your budget (for example I need to be able to build this for under $350/SF) then they will design something to fit that budget. 

Were you a tenant in a homeroom property?