Unfortunately due to the property values, the cash proceeds will be disproportionately impacted by transactional costs associated with the financing (doc prep, appraisal, recording etc.) which will also hurt the available proceeds compared to the same LTV financing of higher value real estate that can better absorb these transactional costs. 

Additionally, seek out testimonials or referrals from other real estate clients to gauge the CPA's expertise and reliability. 

There are HELOANS - at that juncture, your best bet is to evaluate what is called the blended rate and compare that to an entire new first lien (cash out).

Platforms like Zillow or Redfin can give you insight into comparable properties, and PropStream is great for deeper analysis like liens or ownership history. 

Duplexes cash flow better, have less risk, AND EASIER TO MANAGE compared to a SFH.  

Relative AffordabilityDespite recent price increases, Buffalo’s housing market remains more affordable compared to many other U.S. metros.

I have one tenant who is a god send compared to most, he accomplishes nearly ever repair I need, even did an HVAC unit. 

My goal is to offer an affordable monthly payment that competes with renting a comparable property and offers a benefit to paying a bit more to "own". 

Co-living provides built-in diversification, lowering your financial risk compared to single-lease rentals.5.

As much as prices have increased, comparatively you still get A LOT for the money.