For using the equity in your own home, you would need to do a HELOC, in TX its pretty hard, I am not sure about your location but it would be best to speak with a lender who does them.

We want to sell to transition to STR and also invest more locally as long-distance investing comes with its challenges.Does anyone have advice on how to get the best offer without lowering the price further?

This is because the special allowance is reduced to $0 since the modified adjusted gross income is over the $100,000 amount.There are several examples with different limitations in this publication - so I would read it to make sure which one applies to your situation..My guess is that your CPA is on point... but will let you be the judge.All the best!

Adriana - yes, interest rates will be higher for 5+ unit properties and minimum down payment will be 25% generally (opposed to 15% - 20% on 1-4 unit properties). 

That often doesn’t end well.All the best!

For those already investing in commercial or multi-family properties, what strategies have worked best for you?

I know condos might not be the best investment, but I'd rather own something in the city than keep paying rising rent. 

HUD reported FMR's have been above market rate rents and folks have definitely been trying to push the limits with how high they can get them. 

Best of Luck.https://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/live-and-invest-overseas-lief-simon-and-kathleen-peddicord/live-and-invest-overseas-lief-simon-and-kathleen-peddicord-recommended-real-estate-inves-1515549"Lief Simon and Kathleen Peddicord give advice regarding other countries to invest in.

Depends on the cap rate for a given property.