That should play a role in investors buying decisions.

But those decisions aside (We wish it were that easy, right?)

You want an accountant who can help you strategize and who is responsive when you want to know the consequences of the financial decisions you are making throughout the year.There are over 20 real estate accountants on this site.

Really it's your own decision, but if you have zero money for a downpayment and your goal is to purchase an investment property now, a HELOC could be a good short-term solution. 

.: It's a personal decision for the PM.Personally, I apply income to "must-pay" charges first.

Id love to get some anecdotes from investors in the area so I can make a more informed decision.

However, if this is a true "joint venture", all members must be actively involved in generating their own profits so the credit partner would also need to participate in decisions regarding the property such as which contractors to hire; handling issues that arise, etc. 

If I had done that I would have made very different decisions on where I bought in Indianapolis. 

I know this will disappoint most BP forum readers who have been taught they can live behind a computer screen and make sound investment decisions based on zillow zestimates and the number of available rental units at any given time.

If you don't want to accept them, you could tell them you are waiting to see if you have other applications to make a final decision so as not to turn down the only qualified application you have, then risk a lawsuit.Here are some ideas to check:- Does the town limit the number of unrelated people living together?