If you are talking about capex like a new roof, new flooring, or other major improvements then I would use the HELOC.You want to use the cash for more investments that will bring a return.

I only put the down payment and about 20k of capital improvements into it and have brought the income up 60% per month.

For the box size of the car wash you would need to see what rent per sq ft they are paying for the market and make sure it was not inflated with TI (tenant improvements) from the developer.

Doctors have heavy tenant improvements with machines and wiring etc. so tend to not move around as much and stay longer in a space if  a good location.

Even a modest 10%-15%  discount will reduce your risk and increase ROI, as well as improve your cash flow numbers. 

You can make it clear - in writing - that you want to inspect so you can start planning for improvements immediately after closing.

I’ve determined that the way to success for me is to speak publicly every chance that I get, which has improved my comfort level with it dramatically, and to seize every opportunity to try something new.

I am currently saving up 20% for a conventional loan (as it may not be possible to owner occupy) and my biggest concerns at this point (along with all the other newbie concerns) is that one of my recognizable weakness is home improvement.

Possible properties to tap areSFH worth about $330k, current mortgage 141kSFH worth about $270k, current mortgage 128kDuplex worth about 375k, current mortgage 184kPurchase price of new property is approximately 1 million, so I need to come up with $250k-$300k.I'd prefer not to sell any current holdings because they're located in transitioning neighborhoods that look to improve a lot in the future.I could do cash out refinancing, but that's a long process.

Maybe 1 or 2 houses fully paid off will give her an income that will improve her quality of life without having a major debt.How much time does she want to invest each day/week/month?