Our bank will let us use equity that exceeds 25% across multiple properties that are either owned free and clear or where they hold the first so long as the deal still cash flows with however much cash is brought to the table.

Feel free to PM me @Eric Johnson.

He puts a lot of free content out there to learn from.  

You are generally correct that there is an annual exclusion for gift taxes that generally passes tax-free (of course, in all situations, exceptions apply and you have to meet all requirements to qualify). 

Please feel free to PM me. 

The typical income from a free and clear rental would probably be $800-1500/month - and on a financed rental probably $300/month on a good day in today’s market.  

Hi Michael, I'd be glad to help answer some questions for you and/or locate a duplex that would work well for your goals.Feel free to connect!

@Kelly Taylor who doesn’t like tax free atm withdrawals?  

The single biggest advantage of selling your homestead is that you can take all the Cap gain tax free if you have lived in the home as your homestead for 2 of the last 5 years. 

Feel free to inquire about their staff qualifications if it's a larger organization.2.