Additionally, we are open to exploring other options beyond selling, so any advice or alternative strategies from those with experience in similar properties would be greatly appreciated.Thank you in advance for any guidance or connections you can provide.Best regards,Matt Ginsberg

Alternatively, do you have equity in the Joshua Tree House?

The image attached is an example calculation I did and I had to push the appreciation to 25% to be able to pull a good amount for the next down payment.With these calculations, it made me realize that I might have to find alternative ways to go from house hack one to house hack two.

Alternatively, we can pay all cash too.

Contact a realtor or mortgage broker to find properties, negotiate conditions, and investigate financing alternatives.

The other common alternative is to wrap the treads of the staircase in carpet.

Alternatively, once the existing tenant is out, you can lease at market rate.The real challenge of "non-landlord friendly" areas in the form of: your ability to adjust their rent from one lease term to the next, rent control issues that would limit your ability to ever push rent increases over time, any mandates on required renewal options for existing tenants (typically come with rent control measures) and the ease and speed with which evictions are processed. 

@Lily WangHouston's varied economy and rising population make mid-term rentals (MTRs) an attractive alternative for a variety of tenant groups.

@Keaton VolsTo expand your real estate portfolio and achieve financial growth, consider refinancing your property, saving for a down payment, implementing house hacking, partnering, exploring markets, building a network, educating yourself, diversifying into alternative investments, maximizing tax benefits, and maintaining an emergency fund.

TICs have fallen out of favor but as long as they are structured property and are run by a good operator (see point earlier) they can be a good alternative.