I could be off here, but my understanding is that if you are already in the business, you have a precedent set and can depreciate furnishings as you scale your portfolio. 

If he wanted his business practices to be different, than they would be. 

Im very new in the real estate business but i think youre right $500-800 dollars is better than $1500

If you are using the HELOC proceeds to acquire land for a property that will be business use in some manner (a rental), then that interest expense from the HELOC would be deductible against that business project. 

I'm not a big fan of mixing family and business because it can destroy relationships.My favorite recommendation is the one nobody wants to hear: work like a dog, save up, and buy things you can afford to pay for.

I wholeheartedly believe in the business model. 

However its often easier to entrust those who do this as a business to buy the assets and provide you with a solid return. 

Hello Everyone! I'm new to Bigger Pockets & excited to be a part of the community. I'm getting ready to sell my first home, purchase my 2nd home and invest in an additional property to flip. Any connections or adv...

Pretty cool all in one, they've definitely won our business.