Architect is just demanding more money and I guess we have no other alternative  Demanding more money and refusing to do it are two different things.

I understand the challenges and competition in this field and am willing to put in the time and effort to learn and grow.If you have any advice on how someone in my position could gain practical experience or alternative ways to get started in real estate without significant initial capital, I’d be eager to hear your thoughts.Thank you for your time! 

As an alternative, would a cash-out refinance, a home equity loan, or a HELOC make sense for you?

Consider FHA loans, conventional loans, and alternative financing options.

If traditional banks aren't providing favorable terms, consider alternative lenders like HML or PML.  

The strategy involves using the HELOC for a flip to generate fast cash, reinvesting profits into long-term rentals, or exploring alternative ventures like short-term rentals or partnerships.

It seems to be but the pricing is just way higher than the alternatives. 

These self employed 2nd mtg's are typically based on alternative method of caluclation like profit and loss statements if you're self employed or the last 12 months of bank statement deposits using a formula to derive an income from these deposits (like 50% of all annual rolling 12 calendar month deposits X 50% /12 months = monthly income).

.: There IS going to be a big impact on Real Estate, especially for Single Family and small Multi-Family that is Owner Occupied.The SALT Deductions are slated to expire at the end of 2025.Trump has already said that he will allow it to Expire:https://about.bgov.com/insights/elections/2025-tax-policy-cr...This is NOT a small change.The Standard Deduction gets reduced by about 40%.Then you get to deduct the SALT (State and Local Tax) that you paid PLUS up to $1 Million in Interest from your Mortgage against your Federal Tax Return.The only limiting factor will be AMT (Alternative Minimum Tax).In 2017 when this Cap was put into place, it made sense.However, now that the average Home sells for about Double what it was back in 2017, many normal Americans can benefit from the Expiration.I'm hoping that the Trump Administration does not extend the Cap.Too many people will love him more if he allows it to Expire!

I would not invest in real estate with a retirement account.Its too much of a headache and likely not that much better as an investment alternative within a retirement account1) Real Estate provides tax benefits for individuals who own them.