What if I paid of the property aggressively with the cash flow from rent and accelerate my cash flow goals early to increase my ability to risk better deals next (de-risking my cash position while I have kids at home)? 

That will give you positive cash flow and a reserve that could be easily needed when doing REI/ or be the money to furnish the house, deciding to live there.The difference in putting 25% or 3.5% would help you to accelerate the rebuilt of reserve, and more important will reduce leverage.

They have a lot of good info about debt pay off and accelerating that process. 

You could consider partnering as well as looking on your own as a way to potentially accelerate your progress.Good luck and thank you for your service!

Oops, *Accelerated*

I’ve payed thousands to be in masterminds and has been the #1 thing that has accelerated my career. normally makes me the dumbest person in the room which is always a smart move. 

Keep your expenses where they are (or lower) and use that extra cash from the raise to accelerate your plan!

It's just as well because recently I was compelled to review the terms of my mortgage contract and came across a 'Grounds for Acceleration of Debt' clause which says the lender can request the balance of the debt if the contract is breached.

Anything under that is very hard to finance think typically 50% down or more and short amortization to accelerate paydown.

Plan to accelerate the pay off or pay down of the HELOC as this is your tool for the cash needed for the next deal you buy.