I understand this is a good way to become financially secure over time and am eager to start.  

Additionally, high-income earners with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) over $250,000 (married filing jointly) may be subject to the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT).For 2025, bonus depreciation is at 40%, so consider leveraging it for eligible property assets like appliances or fixtures to accelerate deductions.

So basically in my mind this would not be a great financial move as we be accruing about 200k more in debt if we were to sell one house and take the cash from there and use it as a down payment.

I'm eager to learn about how to find and fund properties that help my family financially and my community with affordable/reasonable dwellings for young families and newlyweds.

Do you need cash flow from it for income or will light to no cash flow work if you can groundswell appreciation on a good asset?

I think most BP folks would agree that you have the right idea, diversifying your assets with stocks, bonds, and real estate.

Want to understand more about tax issues, liability, and asset protection regarding investing in real estate.

This is a great first step into your financial future.

talk to a competent financial adviser.  

If you need financial help, ask under the "Finance, Tax, and Legal" forum.