@Jeanette LandFrom my experience working with over 400 investors, growing your portfolio with limited capital is absolutely achievable with the right strategies.

If I used the HELOC, the investment needs to generate >9%.I recognize there are many variables not listed here but would love to hear from more experienced investors on more generally how you think about using cash vs. home equity to grow your portfolio in the current environment. 

I do residential new developments in San Antonio and would like to do something in the RAL space to provide some value to a growing issue in the area.

Plus, having a fully paid-off property could be a nice safety net if the STR market takes a hit or occupancy slows down.On the flip side, if you’re eager to grow, saving for another property could be the better play.

Taking money out of 401k is expensive and you can’t get back the tax benefits of having the money passively grow for decades tax free until distribution. 

Given your husband's expertise in marketing, you probably have the skills to grow a business. 

Look at median household incomes, look at market economy base and diversification, look at what's being done to protect and grow economic performance, just run the #'s and the message should be crystal clear. 

Market Conditions: Is the property located in a growing or stable market?

Don't want the wind to make them grow crooked. 

I am making it a priority to attend at least one a month to grow my network and learn.