I have two questions regarding mortgage interest tax deductions.First, last year, I purchased a HUD property at a significant discount and used a $70,000 HELOC from my primary residence for the down payment.

While I love the idea of eventually owning a paid-off primary residence, I’m debating whether it’s smarter to sell our current house and use the equity as a down payment on the new home or to keep it as a rental.

Be aware if their payment is clearly labeled "for rent only" or similar, and in that case, only apply it to rent. 

I’ve had more success filling vacant units by word of mouth/ networking with other agents in my market recently than I have through the typical advertising methods.

One has a 162k mortgage, $1250 tax,Insurance,%3.5 30 yr, worth at least 750,000 LTR rent $3200, #2- Los Angeles worth   $750k as well just did a remodel of 150 K, mortgage is 75,000 payment $700.tax,Ins, Mtr/str hybrid.

Then the rents would cover that payment plus the mortgage with cash left over.

Also DSCR typically has pre payment penalty while hard money does not. 

This is eerily similar to the unsecured loans I've made and haven't seen a payment on in over two years.

you may have to save up until you have enough money to do so - down payment, closing costs, reserves, etc.House Hacking: What Is It, How to Start, and Strategies for Successit's a more powerful way to get started. 

What kind of account or vehicle would you suggest to start saving down payment money for my first rental property?