I'm also helping a friend out doing the same thing, but he's utilizing the FHA Loan instead. 

Here today gone tomorrow.Your equity is not earning it's keep but as long as you use real estate to park your excess cash you will not be able to do much better. 

Do a Joint Venture with a cash investor (family, friends, etc)

Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.

People here are friendly and helpful.

It’s important to find an investor friendly bank.

Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.

My friend Eric made over $65k on his Highlands airbnb. 

Thanks to both of you for your helpful notes.What prompted me to really think about this was a comment that a friend made.

I recently had a friend transferred to Huntsville, AL. and they love it!