@Jordyn Ohs pay off/down your Heloc aggressively and/or look into DSCR loans for future acquisitions.

Maine in particular has a few markets with a decent amount of multifamilies.

Over the years, I've built up decent cushion in stocks and retirement accounts - I'm right now trying to figure out where to get started... 

Properties have appreciated to insane heights in the Poconos, the metropolitan area I cover has been a decent appreciation gain, but not like the vacation market!

By no means cheap but solid rent + demand, fun place to live, decent inventory (relatively speaking), and is still commutable to the city. 

I wouldn't recommend it in your scenario since you are still new and can look into being more aggressive with saving and increasing income. 

Since you're still in the early stages, don’t rush; it’s better to wait for a better deal than to overpay or settle for marginal returns.If you're getting 0-4% COC and 8-15% IRR over 10 years, those are still decent returns, especially in a less competitive market.

Many are not lending, but others are very aggressive and are building their portfolio now. 

There are many ways to scheme a decent credit score though rebuilding closing acccounts etc. 

Backflip has a decent analysis tool on their app.