I have been listening to the Rent to Retirement podcast recently and they have been heavily selling properties in Akron, OH and I have read some really good reviews about their experience.

Ideally a HELOC is used for less then a  year project where you can refi or sell to pay back the HELOC. 5 years is a long time, things can happen and if you reduce the cashflow on both properties you'll be increasing the risk and having thinner margins.

The overall LTV (including all 3 mortgages) will be key and your selling point will need to be that the 2nd mortgage ($8k) will burn off in 2.5 years (based on your surprise that it was even out there, I'd recommend that you follow up in 2.5 years and ensure that it's been satisified, so that it doesn't surprise you again in the future).Does the $8k grant vest over the 5 years? 

Here are a few ideas to explore that might help you get closer to homeownership in San Diego without selling:Cash-Out Refinance:Refinancing one or both of your El Centro properties could free up additional cash for a down payment without selling.

It really doesn't apply as much anymore in most markets because rates are too high and homes are selling for too much. .75% rule is more viable and would be the new 1% rule in this market.

If not, should I sell stock that I have that has capital gains that would be due on it and offset that?

We had to move fast and initially decided to sell it, the relator who was helping us somehow convinced us we should make it a rental property......... and let her be our tenant (insert face palm here) so since we had no real estate experience and we were already moved away, we agreed.

Exit Strategy:Every deal should have an exit strategy, whether that’s selling the property for a profit after appreciating in value, refinancing, or holding onto the property for long-term rental income.Connecting with Experienced Investors:It’s awesome that you’re looking to connect with others on this journey!

I have purchased an off-market property from an investor who now wants to sell the rest of his portfolio.

Remember, if you decide to sell in a few years, any bonus depreciation comes back as ordinary income.