Your story proves that being in the game creates opportunities you can’t plan for.

The borrowers think they're getting a loan when in reality they're funding investor games in the secondary market.

But by coming together with others, one can get in the game and put their money to work in these bigger, potentially greater return deals without having to do it solo.

With rent control in NJ, yeah, it’s mostly a waiting game if tenants don’t leave.

So it's a waiting game for that property until you have enough to do a cash out refi.

Owning a duplex at 20 is a huge accomplishment, and it’s inspiring to see you’re already planning your next move.From my perspective, real estate investing is a long-term game focused on building equity, paying down debt, and maintaining stability over chasing short-term cash flow.

You don't want to be so focused on getting into the game that you leverage the start of your entire life just to do it.

Quote from @Scott Hertzog: Hey everyone,I am coming into this game a little later in life.

I'm new to the real estate investment game and I'm a bit nervous about dipping my toes into unknown waters. 

A borrower really needs to have at least some "skin in the game" to make lenders feel comfortable.