I’m intrigued by the idea of providing affordable housing while generating steady rental income, but I’m still in the research phase and have a few questions:Is investing in Section 8 housing a good idea?

That way, you could break even, or perhaps generate cash flow.

However, if I earn too much “earned income,” I risk losing these essential benefits.That’s why I’m exploring real estate and the stock market, as these generate “unearned income” and allow me to maintain my benefits while building financial security.

Some banks might require a cash portion to your initial investment.  

As for your initial questions:One lender I have spoken with stated that the DCSR loans are not regulated.

You may run into issues trying to take a HELOC out on an investment property, and even if you can I doubt you'd want to use it for a down payment for a primary because the rates are much higher.What kind of cash flow would you be generating from your multi once you move out?

This is expensive from an initial capital and maintenance standpoint and I've been on the hunt for a better way.One option that I've found is installing BTU/Flow meters (Istec 4440) on the supply and return lines for each heating zone (one zone per unit).

I would forget about growing the portfolio and generational wealth until your husband finds a job and you reduce your credit card debt.Credit card debt has interest rates above 20%, there is a strong case that your rentals are not generating a 20% return.

Most sponsors returned my initial message/email within a couple of days.

My new bookkeeper initially thought the multiple checking accounts was weird but now she has come around to seeing how easy it is to get detailed reports and information about each individual property this way as opposed to having one operating account for all properties.