I am 36, with a degree as Medical Doctor, never getting into practice. 

currently HELOC rate is at 3.00%, down from 3.99% a month ago when the 6 month initial lock ended (i have over 9 years left on my draw period). now the rate is variable. the bank is hinting that the rate on the mortgage will be around 3.5% fixed. i don't qualify for traditional mortgage on my dti (but i do double my income with overtime and bonuses, and my wife will have a new income as well once we relocate) so our family friend is cosigning on the mortgage with me. the bank is writing it internally at 15yr with a choice between amortized or balloon. the building will need a new roof in about 5 years, and leaving $35k in the HELOC for that would keep me happy, so i'm willing to go up to $100k down payment if it makes sense. that would change my loan to $179k from $223,200, but also would tap any funds i might have for improving the property other than the roof, like fencing in the backyard and converting the third floor to its own unit. the new rubber roof would be more like $20-$25k but i like to be conservative. i have heard of people using their heloc to pay down their mortgage principal, which i could also do, but it seems to be a gimmick, and even if not may it be easier to just get a smaller loan amount to start?

In theory it is a great idea however in practice I'm not so sure.  

Similarly, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act could be applicable where a landlord rejects an undocumented person as tenant based on their ethnicity or national origin rather than simply their immigration status.So just make sure you protect yourself and keep your practices the same. 

Tracking vacancy (and Loss to Lease) is common practice on commercial P&Ls. 

Being that as it is, it is not practical for me to visit every (any) property before submitting an offer.

As per my experiences, one should practice underwriting at least two deals a day.

Pretty bullish sentiments reported on the Texidus and all things Elon relocating here..by Californians.   

@Christina Merlo Cash out refinance or utilize a RELOC on the property to buy out your sisters share.

I am willing to relocate.