That being said the main issue with leverage is being over leveraged.

The main advice I would recommend is to begin networking.

Yes I do understand a majority of people don't think its a good strategy mainly because of the turnover, the risk, the lack of equity. 

The Columbia market -- specifically West Cola, Cayce, North Main, toward Camden, etc. -- appears to have some properties that would cash flow well, but may be limited on long-term appreciation.I'm looking to stick to market-rate properties.  

However, you will find it difficult being that both of you are W-2 with your main activity to produce income being outside the real estate profession.

I have personally stayed in one of these places where the main house is separated, and only the basement space which has a walkout entrance, its own kitchen, and two bathrooms would be rented out an Airbnb.

I would just need to invest in furnishing it very well with better appliances mainly.

I think the best thing would be to knock out the line of credit mainly because I’ve been putting a lot of time into getting my business up and running, BUT if I could knock out the renovating before March that would be a HUGE win.

I invest locally and invest out of state, and the main issue for most is the shiny diamond syndrome providing you the reasons why investing (insert area here) is the best place. 

You might find that installing a mini-split system, properly insulating, and ensuring the finishes match the main home’s quality will make a difference in how the appraiser views it.