The properties in OK, which are roughly 30-40% smaller than my personal residence are only about $400-$600 cheaper than my FL insurance.

Once it's rented, use that rental income to help offset your DTI, which may help you qualify for the second property sooner.Partner with Investors: Team up with someone to split costs and lower your personal DTI impact.

This could give you the cash you need for the purchase and also eliminate your personal guarantee for the loans.

Focus on the numbers and the goals, not personal feelings.

To Sum it up, its a good idea if you can exceed the cost of capital (higher rate than your cost of debt) with what you earn on your heloc/debt you pull out and invest.The question is how much gains above is enough to substantiate the risk of your variable interest rate, well thats up to your personal investing criteria.

Nice to see Zillow agreeing with every sales person from Buffalo LOL.Buffalo is a good market to invest long term if you get a good property, on a good street, in good condition.  

I personally find that half the battle is just getting myself to write down & track progress

With respect to paying $44k off on your HELOC, I personally think that is totally fine and a great start. 

These homes are in my personal name right now.  

It started with really buying my own personal home, then selling and making a small profit.