If you’re able to save another $20K within 6-12 months, waiting could open up more opportunities and give you more flexibility in your investment choices.If I were young, had $23K, and believed I could rebuild that savings account, I’d seriously consider making the jump.

However, if you need more flexible terms then look for a local mortgage broker who has access to a lot of companies offering HELOCs with most having more flexible terms than local credit unions. 

To evaluate an advisor, consider their track record, flexibility, and compatibility with your goals.

A HELOC gives you flexibility since you can draw as needed and only pay interest on the amount you use, which might be useful if you’re not sure exactly how much you’ll need upfront.That said, it’s important to compare the interest rates between a HELOC and your expected returns in the stock market—if you’re making more in your investments than you’d pay in interest, it could be a good play. 

However, the absence of a renewal option in the lease could indicate uncertainty or strategic flexibility.

Rates are typically higher than a traditional cash out refinance, however at least you are not getting the full loan amount + you have the flexibility to draw/tap in the money whenever needed.

Be flexible and respectful to both the residents and to the employee of the company actually paying the bill.I know this sounds incredibly basic and simple, and it is.

If there are no comps that exactly match my criteria (e.g. bedroom count), how much flexibility is advisable when searching for comps?

Once you leave the standard terms, everything becomes negotiable and depends on the lender’s appetite and flexibility.  

As for finding better financing terms, look into portfolio lenders or credit unions—they might offer more flexibility than traditional banks for investment properties.