Eventually cash neutral Is achieved but how long will it take and is there any of that sweat equity still present?

That would make the property neutral cashflow.It sounds like you don't want to sacrifice your 3% interest rate but do want to pull some cash out of the property for other purchases, so the HELOC is potentially the best of both worlds there.

We pick one neutral wall color to paint throughout, usually some variation of beige.

For me- finding opportunities where I can force at least 15% equity and be cash flow neutral the first year is an excellent deal.

With our higher interest rate environment, 3% or 5% down may not be enough to be cash flow neutral.

These places are usually a peaceful and neutral environment for important discussions.

As such, we are considering owning the properties in our own names to minimize tax burdens.Our primary motivation for investing in real estate is appreciation, as current projections show neutral cash flow.

I expect to be cash neutral in 2 years.  

At high LTV, you need a ~1% ratio in my market with the current rates to be cash neutral if properly allocating for expenses.  

Now I'm left wondering whether it's best to lower the price to get the property off my hands asap or to make some costly improvements that will probably neutralize any increase in value.