I have other HELOCs that were much easier to get both personally and professionally.

With your balance sheet and cash, you can put together creative deals without giving up equity and without using your cash but you are going to need to find a market and product which has 7-8% cap rates.I invest in the northeast, Great Lakes area.Diverse economies with education, healthcare as the back bone and tech as growth.In your area, you’ll have to raise way more capital in the form of equity just to meet DSCR with the banks.

Join local real estate groups, attend seminars, and participate in online forums like BiggerPockets to connect with other investors, lenders, and professionals in the field.## Additional Resources- Check out the BiggerPockets podcasts and webinars for more insights on these strategies.- Read books like "What Every Real Estate Investor Needs to Know About Cash Flow" by Frank Gallinelli to deepen your understanding of real estate investing.- Use local real estate agents who are familiar with investment properties to help you find the right deals.You're taking the right steps by seeking knowledge and networking.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Buying right is critical as is timing Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

VA Loan Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Just be mindful of the following things when it comes to California.California does not recognize Bonus DepreciationCalifornia does not recognize real estate professional status.Therefore, you can potentially reduce your Federal taxes but not your California taxes.

Having reasonable expectations, hiring a local professional (Realtor or PM), doing your research, and doing everything right (i.e. pro photos, professional design, good renovation, proper amenities and location, etc) are the keys to success in 2025.