If I could get closer to 0-300/month in mortgage payment, then perhaps a HH has more merit to it.  

But generally in my experience, it makes more sense to just replace the line if there's a part that is so bad it merits fixing and can't just be snaked out.

Definitely merit to that advice.Here’s another approach.Assuming you have a strong credit score, why not take a HELOC out on one or all three of those rental properties once you have some equity beyond the 20% mark?

Nick, your approach certainly has merit, both legally and logically.

Zillow values hold no merit, use closed listing on the MLS to gauge value. 

If you can clarify those details re-post here and we can see where it takes us, if it is of merit.  

I would agree that it is a market with merit potential for different strategies, but geez, it's like clockwork with you guys . . . .

I follow them around and ask questions like an annoying boy scout who wants to learn how to get a complicated Merit badge.

I'm a life-long KC area resident so I think my perspective has merit but feel free to reach out if I can help you further. 

If either of these are on your radar, I'd be happy to chat about the merits of the markets and help.