There is no point refinancing the almost paid off property to buy another-just get a mortgage on the new property.hard money lenders are going to charge you a higher interest rate.

If you want to sell this property, you need to let someone inspect it at least once and the discount for due diligence needs to be worth it. 

We do want to settle in a little bit here while continuing to do our homework, but hope to get into something in the next 6-12 months.With the way interest rates are looking now and what little I see on public listings, I think a smaller multi-family that needs a little rehab would be the best bet. 

especially now with rates up.

As far as your next property, if you are already considering moving you will get better loan options + interest rates if you decide to live in the next property and rent out your current house. 

CA has the highest sales tax rate in the country.

I financed this property using down payment funds from 403B and a local commercial bank. 15% down from personal funds. 85% down from community commercial bank. 3yr balloon, 20yr amortization, 7% interest rate.

Im self employed, roughly make $130k gross anually, 1099 NEC , no debt at all, 740 credit score.  Want to get a loan for $250k in AZ

Depends on the brokerage you have, but the one we use currently has a rate at 5.83% at 50% LTV.

Hi Enrique, as a realtor you have access to the MLS and Neighorhood Scout and AreaVibe if its available in you area can give you ratings on crime and schools.