This gives you the dry powder you need if a good deal comes along or unexpected expenses and you keep the existing low mortgage rates and do not increase your payment until you use the HELOC.Consider how you could increase the cash flow on the existing properties and if you have the means to pay off one of the houses to increase the monthly cash flow that way.

Or, if you do, don't be surprised if you strike out. 

I certainly thought the same thing and was very surprised.

It will not surprise anyone to know that NY requires landlords to accept a credit report from any applicant that is less than 30 days old. 

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

These charges were a surprise to us.

The bathtub tile might just need to have the grout cleaned, you’d be surprised how much that makes a difference and it would probably take an hour or two. 

For any noobies:  Research a ton and feel free to reach out to people nicely, you'd be surprised just how often people want to help. 

My favorite contractor is male, and not surprisingly, he is not condescending. 

I am surprised it is still sitting on the market when the rental rate is on par with the market.