And that's the talk here, if "used leverage ___" well that leverage in stocks ie margin, is insanely dangerous maxed out at 2:1.

Is there any reason why going bigger is bad when leverage is not excessive and underwriting is conservative?

The reason I am explore this is because the current investors would have a higher IRR (internal rate of return) if I leveraged their cash and brought back a higher returns. 

@Vincent Pflieger I think 100% leveraged is normally a bad idea.  1.

However, assumable mortgages provide a unique opportunity to leverage low down payments, low-interest rates, and strong long-term returns—if you know how to approach them correctly.Let’s break down how to structure a great deal using an assumable mortgage, even if it comes with some negative cash flow in the short term.The Three Levers of a Strong InvestmentEvery great real estate investment balances three key levers:          1. 

I want to minimize my out-of-pocket expenses and am considering using a HELOC on my home or leveraging the equity from my first rental down the line.

Metro’s Robust Technology Sector, Virginia Tech and George Mason Campus Expansion, Amazon HQ2The strength of the D.C.

Are there any tasks that you are finding helpful to pass onto technology?

If you want to stay in your house, then your only option would be to leverage equity which will probably be in the 8-10% interest rate range.Not knowing the entire situation, I think you could consider downsizing and then using the proceeds to buy a 2-4 unit property and start making $40-75K right away with still no debt. 

This tax is assessed on income derived from the leveraged portion of the real estate owned by the IRA, and also applies on the sale of leveraged property in an IRA.