You could also get a line of credit for about $150k (you should be able to borrow 75% of the value.)The reason I suggest this is…1) you save $40-$60k in selling costs. 2) you have a lower blended interest rate (2/3rds at 3.25% and 1/3rd at 7 or 8% instead of the whole $500k at 7 or 8%) saving you another $1k/mo in interest. 3) you only pay interest on that $150k when you actually use it, not from day 1  Unless you hate this property, or want to buy something you can’t afford without selling, that would be my plan.

CA taxes residents on worldwide income but may provide a credit for taxes paid to other states.

never heard of them, I would do some internet digging on them to get the scoop.

• Should utilities, internet, or services like snow removal/lawn care be included, or not?

The sub 550 credit score people come out of the woodwork to apply for this home. 

If you had good credit (670-730 range), you have 20% to make a down payment, and sufficient income to qualify for the home you want to purchase - Would you choose the FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER or CONVENTIONAL purchase option...which would you pick and WHY?

Eviction History: No prior evictions are permitted.Requirements to consider: Background and Credit Check: A clear background and credit check is required.

And don’t sleep on local banks or credit unions—they sometimes offer flexible portfolio loans that could work for a deal like this.Since your wife qualifies as a first-time homebuyer, check out any state-specific programs or HUD options for down payment assistance.

But you have to ask proactively, and be mindful of how long you stay in forbearance to avoid long-term credit issues.🔹 Insurance Challenges – Even when insurance pays, it rarely covers the actual cost to completely rebuild.

For a cash out refi, you are generally limited to 75% LTV and rates right now are in the mid 7s for good credit and a DSCR over 1.0.