That’s a huge milestone, and doing it with 5% down on an owner-occupied deal was a smart entry move.The DTI challenge is a very real one, especially for newer investors juggling a mortgage and student debt.

If this process sounds like a lot to juggle, you're not wrong.

It also handles rent collection and gives you a clear view of cash flow, which is helpful once you’re juggling multiple properties.Might be worth checking out if you’re looking for something more stable without jumping into the deep end with QuickBooks.

If your GC is more hands-off or juggling multiple jobs, a project manager fills that gap.Now, if your GC is super hands-on and reliable, a dedicated project manager might be overkill.

Both strategies you mentioned have their merits, so the best choice depends on your goals and risk tolerance:Pulling all the cash out (cash-out refinance):Gives you a lump sum to put toward a multifamily down payment.Simplifies your focus—less juggling of multiple loans or lines of credit.But it can increase your monthly payments and debt service on that property.Using a Line of Credit (LOC) and BRRRR strategy:Keeps your cash flowing and allows you to recycle funds multiple times.You rehab, refinance, pay back the LOC, then move on to the next deal—building momentum.Requires more active management and discipline to execute well.My take:If you want to aggressively scale and are comfortable with more hands-on management, the LOC + BRRRR approach can maximize your buying power over time.

Many of whom are also juggling full-time jobs or family commitments.For remote market analysis, Mashvisor and Rentometer are helpful tools alongside your custom Excel model.

I’m Micah — a real estate investor, coach, and proud Chicagoan.I started my investment journey back in 2024, and since then, I’ve:- Built a 7-unit rental portfolio in Chicago (Logan Square & North Lawndale)- Founded the Brick by Brick Blueprint, where I coach first-time investors through buying their first rental- Helped close over $175M in institutional real estate deals through my work in acquisitions at a real estate private equity firmThese days, I spend most of my time helping new investors build confidence, analyze deals, and get to the closing table — especially folks in their 20s and 30s who are juggling full-time jobs and trying to break into the game the right way.If you’re a beginner feeling stuck, I’ve been there.

Major kudos to you for getting started at 19, especially while juggling school.

You’re juggling the right variables: liquidity, leverage, and cash flow timing. 

So your asking us Miles if it's a "good deal" to go tap dancing in a mine-field while juggling hand-grenades.......