Bringing the seller in on the deal not only gives them an opportunity to benefit from the upside of the flip but also positions you as a problem-solver, which can build trust and goodwill.

Tenant just moved in and is asking to delay rent payment until next month, looking for the 10 day move out form

Upfront expenses and monthly payments must be considered when calculating the return on your investment.EXAMPLEYou cash out $100,000 of your equity and use this as a down payment on a $400,000 investment property.

You payment is $2,600 plus tax and insurance.

Quote from @Jaren Taylor: Quote from @Chris Mason: If you have the ability to market and raise money, then you secure the down payment, and do the normal commercial mortgage process. 

By the time I reach 20% equity (likely 3+ years away), my monthly mortgage payment will come down when I refinance, but $600 is a big hit to the numbers. 

I am currently in the planning phase of my real estate investment journey and had a few questions I’d like to ask someone more experienced.Would it be smarter to focus on paying down my own mortgage and then use a HELOC as a down payment for my first investment property, or should I simply use my savings for the down payment instead?

Creative terms can make your offer stand out, especially in competitive markets.Build RapportPeople are more likely to work with those they like and trust.

THEN, I plan to purchase the second home using a FHA or conventional loan (3%-5% down), for which I will likely pay the monthly cost out-of-pocket, maybe with some rental income support if it is a duplex.My concern is, I do not want to spend my savings or weigh down my debt-to-income ratio so much so that I cannot qualify for and pay the down payment and closing for the lending on the second home.Questions: - With the first home being multi-family, 75% of the rental income (or potential rental income initially) will relatively either maintain or boost my debt-to-income ratio from lenders' perspectives, right? 

Local property managers or agents can often provide trusted referrals, and real estate meetups are also great for connections.Wishing you the best!