If the place is vacant, you are still taking that money out of your own pocket.I don't disagree with having a strong cash position; most of my properties are f&c.

Here’s my honest advise; consider studying for and obtaining your real estate sales license, and obtain a part time position with a real estate agency that will provide training, guidance, and oversight.  

@Xavier PereraAt 21 and making $180K a year, you’re in an incredible position to transition into full-time real estate investing.

Stay positive and expect problems.

They have had nothing but positive things to say. 

This creates two loan payments ($100,000 of equity and $300,000 on the new mortgage).Key NumbersHome Equity Loan Interest Rate: 6%Mortgage Interest Rate: 7%Rental Income: $3,000 per monthExpenses (management, taxes, insurance, maintenance): $800 per monthIncome and ExpensesMonthly Rental Income: $3,000Monthly Expenses: $800Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,000ExplanationThe investor earns $3,000 in rent each month.They pay $2,000 on the investment property mortgage and $800 on other expenses.This leaves $200 profit each month or $2,400 per year.However, you have to pay $6,000 interest on the equity borrowed.This leaves you with an annual loss of $3,600.While the rental property generates positive monthly income, the interest cost of borrowing the initial $100,000 results in an overall loss.

We pride ourselves in keeping the forums positive, helpful, and focused on real estate (please, no politics, religion, etc.).

Because you are not changing the tax return that reports the activity of the property.But... the IRS holds the position that Husband/wife LLCs can only be disregarded in community property states. 

@Surya S KumaresanYou're in a great position to grow your real estate portfolio in Atlanta, a market with strong appreciation and rental demand.

Unfortunately, given current and foreseeable prices and interest rates, I will not be in the position to buy anything else anywhere I’d want to go.