I suppose the answer according to this philosophy is to sell the house in order to pay off the new one faster.This just seems like a unique opportunity considering we already have the house and it has appreciated so much in a hot rental area.

So being a vet if you were trying to maximize your unique benefits I'd say buy a multi family house (2-4) units and live in one unit and rent out the others.

They most likely won't allow as high leverage as FHA in (1), but they'll be used to "unique" situations.

I monitor the Houston forum, so I have read many of your posts - The primary theme I see in your posts is that you generously offer your time and expertise to new investors and allow a group of new or wannabe investors the opportunity to walk your flips and tag along with you while you are looking for or working on a project - very generous of you - I see that you were able to give an amazing opportunity to a new investor when she may have not had the confidence to move forward on her own without your guidance - I am a fan of collaborating with other investors when you do not have the funds to complete a project on your own ... it can be a win/win opportunity that otherwise would have to be passed up ......However, when I read the details in this post, a few things come to mind - it seems that you used very little of your own money ...$5,000?

I have a unique situation wherein the property is owned by 5 siblings and they all agreed they want the oldest sibling to sign everything on their behalf, so they want to complete a power of attorney form to give him the right to sign.

The common theme here seems to be the "TEAM". 

You need to piece together the puzzle from multiple sources.So far the best local criminal resource I have used is through the ME State Police.

Located in booming San Antonio, TX area near Shopping Malls, Theme Park, Restaurants, Medical Center, plenty of stores in great neighborhood.

My situation may be somewhat unique compared to most other new members here, and any advice would be greatly appreciated!

I have a unique situation wherein the property I want to purchase is owned by 5 siblings and they have all agreed they want the oldest sibling to sign everything on their behalf, so they want to complete a power of attorney form to give him the right to sign.