Do right by them and word spreads, momentum is built and eventually you are raising money from PE firms, family offices etc. if you care to grow beyond your personal network's means. 

I’ve dabbled in real estate too, and I think using a home equity loan can work well if you’re careful.

Maybe have a decent sized pool of cash to take care of the occasional roof repair or personal expense, but almost entirely in real estate?

We try to have weekly talks about goals, we have a spreadsheet for everything job, investing, health and etc. it is hard for me because I want to push, but I just listen and that is better that way.

Just because Zillow estimates a lower value, doesn't mean people will offer lower than the list price.Also, be careful about the laws with the association and renters.

You can’t just rely on the voucher and guaranteed rent; you have to make sure the tenant will take care of your property.

Case and point today we spent 6 hours onboarding a new house in Kissimmee (outside orlando) whose prior cleaners did not care.  

As for your lease, I'd be careful with what you are doing there.

U have to vette folks to make sure they take care of it and just dont sell it .. :)  So with what you have raised and if you want to continue raising money you could follow the same path I did..

Super helpful and their CEO Zach is very knowledgeable and obviously cares about making sure his clients are taken care of.