I think my fees are high until I shop around and then I am thankful. 

And you get feedback at a level high enough to determine how to proceed. 

•If CPI remains high (3.4% or above): Mortgage rates are likely to stay at current levels or even increase slightly as the Fed remains restrictive.

Look at what high interest credit cards you can get rid of, pay down, or move to zero interest promotion cards for say 15 months etc.

I agree with the other posters...25% down seems a bit high.

My firend once had a client who did a high end remodel in a somewhat modest neighborhood.

Using 50% rule (expenses excluding P&i is 50% of rent) here are the numbers;1800 (rent) - $900 (expenses) - 1468 (heloc) = negative $568/monthAt your rent point with that size unit, your expenses will ve less than depicted by the 50% rule, so let’s use a likely more accurate 40%1800 - 720 (expenses) - 1468 = negative $388/monthNow let’s imagine you self manage and you time is not worth anything (I strongly recommend believing your time is worth less or worth less than a quality PM would charge) with 8% further reduction so expenses are down to 32%1800 - 576 (expenses) - 1468 = negative $244/month. 

I highly suggest as many in-person networking events as possible! 

North Park buyers might love a historic Craftsman with modern touches, while La Jolla buyers want high-end finishes and panoramic views.

For high interest mortgages, usually break even or negative.