Hi John, I’m based in Seattle but invest in Memphis and Detroit where I now own 9 doors.

Early on, I think people should be more conservative and establish a base (HYSA) and then regular (weekly or monthly) automated investments in low cost index funds. 

I've done several house-hacks personally with different strategies as well and have helped many clients do them in Pinellas/Hillsborough/Pasco/Manatee counties as well so if you have questions let me know and I can give you a rundown of your best options based on your preferences.If you don't want, or don't need to house-hack, then you have a couple options and that is going to depend on your goals, savings rate, and other details. 

Here are some pros and cons of each approach to help you decide:Paying Cash for One Home and Refinancing LaterPros:No Mortgage Payments: You won't have monthly mortgage payments initially, which can reduce financial stress.Equity: You own the home outright, giving you full equity which can be used for refinancing.Lower Costs: No interest payments and possibly lower closing costs compared to having a mortgage.Better Negotiation Power: Cash buyers often have more negotiating power and can close deals faster.Cons:Opportunity Cost: Your cash is tied up in one property, potentially limiting your ability to invest in other opportunities.Refinancing Risks: Future interest rates may be higher, making refinancing more expensive.Market Fluctuations: Property values might decrease, affecting the amount you can refinance.Buying Four Homes with 20% Down on EachPros:Diversification: Owning multiple properties diversifies your investment, reducing risk.Rental Income: Potential rental income from multiple properties can generate cash flow.Appreciation: You benefit from the appreciation of multiple properties.Leverage: Using mortgages allows you to leverage your investments, potentially increasing your return on investment.Cons:Higher Debt: You'll have multiple mortgage payments, increasing your debt and financial obligations.Management: Managing multiple properties can be more complex and time-consuming.Market Risks: Market downturns can affect all properties, amplifying risks.Cash Flow: If rental income is not enough to cover mortgage payments, you could face cash flow issues.Considerations:Financial Stability: Assess your current financial stability and ability to handle mortgage payments and potential vacancies.Market Conditions: Consider current and projected real estate market conditions and interest rates.Investment Goals: Align your decision with your long-term investment goals and risk tolerance.Professional Advice: Consult with a financial advisor or real estate professional to get personalized advice based on your specific situation.If you prioritize lower risk and less debt, paying cash for one home might be the better option.

Examples of short and long term uses, HELOCs & CES.HELOC(Short Term)- Use a portion or all of the HELOC now knowing you're going to pay down quickly, which eliminates payments and interest.HELOC(Long Term)- Many HELOCs have 10 year interest only draw periods, while CES have a P&I payment, HELOCs may have less impact on cashflow over the long term.- Perhaps you think rates are going to move lower.

On 60k, fronting 10k should get the project through with no stoppages waiting for draw disbursements and then the 10k minus the draw fees goes back to you at the end. 

Mortgage remaining is around 85K and current value based on comps is right around 295k.

Also my local church holds a weekly community dinner that draws about 100 people which is more than attend Sunday services.

I have searched for other places based on owners responses to guests. 

Your dad's cost basis for the portion of the property he now owns outright (his life estate portion plus the remaindership portion he received back from your brother) would likely be based on the value of the property at the time it was originally transferred to both you and your brother.