I also live in Tomball and have a similar need for a CPA with heavy RE / investment income experience.Matthew

My base income is ~$95k per year.

Look into a DSCR, Debt Service Coverage Ratio, loan where the rental income can be used to qualify the cash out refinance instead of your personal income.To Your Success! 

In the past, I cashed out my 401K(Paid income tax + Penalty).

My answer is always a mix of: You’re overthinking it and work smarter, not harder.A lot of investors are sold on the idea that STRs are a passive income source—which, to an extent, they can be.

Use your W-2 income to qualify for multiple loans now, stack a few properties before quitting your job, and consider BRRRR or DSCR loans later to scale.

Say Income tax rate is 25%. 

So, we bought the property 2 years ago, based on the valuation of the property considering income from 6 units.The sale deeds (from 2018- 3 sales) I could get from the City and the property tax statements (2023,2024) show that the property is zoned as 411 (apartments).

I have lived in Hawaii for many years but now that I’m a traveling healthcare provider, I am off island more often than not.When I’m not on contract I would love to have a place to return to and when I’m away I would love to rent it out for some additional income.

If I believe I can generate enough profit this year and navigate any potential inspections next year, I’d be comfortable moving forward—using the income earned to cover any necessary upgrades.An alternative exit strategy is to document the financial performance and sell the property as-is, highlighting its strong short-term rental income.Think through your next five moves, from best to worst-case scenarios, and make a decision that aligns with your goals.