Or like California a RE Broker like myself or Consumer finance license all which are regulated by the state .

Id go right into looking at local credit unions and small community banks for HELOCs (lines of credit) so you can have a lower blended rate and draw/payback as you please.For the 3F - Since this is free and clear, you would only be looking at 1st position options here in the world of financing.

Financing might be a challenge.I would recommend consulting with a attorney, loan officer, and CPA to discuss your specific situation and determine the best course of action. 

Here are a few to watch out for:Property Condition: Most distressed properties need extensive repairs or renovations, which add to your initial investment.Competitive Market: With Phoenix's popularity among investors, competition for the best deals can be intense.Complex Deals: Foreclosures, auctions, or short sales are much more complicated compared to regular real estate transactions and usually require specialized knowledge.Tips to Successfully Navigate the MarketDo Your Research: Understand the local market conditions, including neighborhood trends, property values, and potential rental income.Build a Strong Network: Work with professionals who specialize in distressed properties-such as brokers, contractors, and legal experts-to make the best decisions.Assess Costs Carefully: Factor in the cost of repairs, holding costs, and any potential financing issues when evaluating a property’s profitability.Be Patient: Finding the right distressed property takes time.

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

I have been reading many books on finances, rentals, and real estate and feel this is an area I can have more "control" over my investment rather than placing it all in my 401k and hoping for the best. 

HighLevelAccounting & Finance: What tools make bookkeeping and financial tracking seamless?

Financing your second property can be tricky since lenders may only count 75% of rental income toward your debt-to-income ratio, so get pre-approved early.

When you talk to finance people they act like they are lawyers.

This also leaves me with $3,750 stuck in the deal (not including financing and closing costs, which could easily add another $20,000).In total, if I had to include closing costs and financing costs, I’d have about $23,000 (if not more) tied up in the deal and lose close to $700/month before accounting for expenses.