Purchased home with potential upside in hoping to force appreciation in the house in order to create equity and eventually utilize the equity (HELOC) to begin investing in other properties.

I have the opportunity to list sell multiple acres of virgin waterfront property in Trinidad and Tobago.So I'm looking for potential investors as well.Which islands do your company typically operate?

And we're still seeing deals here that are positive cash flowing with lots of potential for appreciation.

Since you’re looking for landlord-friendly states, consider areas in the Southeast or Midwest, where affordability and cash flow potential are often stronger.I agree.

If a potential client is using 1031's they will appreciate a realtor they don't have to educate. 

Portfolio = Income derived from financial instruments like dividends (including REITs), interest, royalties, and capital gains.Mostly income w/out loss potential, and favorable tax rates.Cap losses may offset cap gains w up to $3,000 loss.

All that said, and to answer your question, I think a guaranteed check for 66% of the rent offers some peace of mind and limits potential loss. 

Analyze your strengths/weaknesses and also the type of business you are planning on building.

Leveraging equity to purchase a short-term rental (STR) in Tampa Bay can diversify your portfolio and potentially generate strong cash flow, but it also increases your financial risk.

It is tough to crack, but it has so much potential.