The property/situation and what you plan to do with it in the future will dictate if you should purchase with cash or mortgage the property. 

Like it or not, as Gini ratio increases, I would expect more crimes in this country and neo-progressive ruling class may even further dictating the country.The future is not looking good for next generation, and this is why I precisely bought properties for them so they can survive.America is really following the economy's trajectory of Asia post 1999 era where most things are suddenly become unaffordable.

Keep the end in mind and your current actions will help dictate what moves you can take right now.

So no paralysis, just life circumstances that kind of dictated how things needed to go down.

The color of your skin would literally dictate which neighborhoods you were allowed to rent/buy in.

They can fake paystubs off CraigslistLet them know upfront what your expectations are and do not allow them to dictate the terms of your lease.  

My two cents are that lifestyle design should dictate your (or anyone’s actions) in this regard.If you want to grow, use leverage.

Tell them to move into a cheap hotel until they find a new apartment.Don't take one penny from them to give them tenants rights.Don't ever let someone deny you your property and dictate what you will do with your property.

Each state will have their own regulations that dictate the Max LTV you can have on a HELOC and Cash Out. 

The current rental market dictates the price.