Think there is some substantial validity in this, but do you think it could potentially be utilized in a different fashion?

Utilizing my relationship with a great local lender I started the process of getting a secured line of credit set up against the 3 unit so I could pull most of my money back out.

Some expenses, such as utilities, property taxes, and interest, incurred during this period may also be capitalized.

Typical utility bills (which we include) are $100-300/month.  

However, in my state utility shutoffs are not allowed in winter and that gets people confused sometimes. 4.

There's a few different ways to focus on a lower rate such as with house hacking and making the investment your primary residence, requesting a significant closing credit from the sellers for standard rate buy-downs (which I've had great success with recently), or utilizing lenders who offer short term rate lowering solutions such as 2-1 rate buy downs (again, ideally paid for by the sellers).

Plus the challenge with mid term is you are generally on the hook for things like internet, utilities, etc.

You can also start exploring a house hack to utilize the lower DP

My goal, over the next five years, is to utilize real estate in lieu of my current hourly consulting income, by building a portfolio of rentals.  

I’m looking to connect with experienced spec builders who have utilized hard money lenders, private money, or even grants to fund their projects.