Unemployment - I think it's fairly low now so that is a positive 6. 

I have come across a few and even listed one recently with a assumable loan but they need about 30% down because of the seller's equity position

Hopkins  I am in the same position as you as 9 years ago , I am looking for good contractors for fix and flip and serious wholesalers, would you please help me with some contact?

We currently live in Hot Springs Arkansas and my wife just accepted a position in Jacksonville Florida.

While waiting, we are thinking if we should do cash out refi on our primary home to pay off the two rentals since we have so much equity in our primary.

It's more of an appreciation market that will build strong equity versus the Midwest where you might get more initial cashflow.

If you've had positive experiences or know someone who has, I'd love to hear about it.

You should be able to roll in all your closing costs and loan amount so you have no out-of-pocket cost for the refi if you have additional equity you can also take that out up to 75% LTV. good luck! 

Investment Info:

Single-family residence fix & flip investment.

Purchase price: $265,000

4 Bed 2 bath SFR with fire damage.

What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?
...

Not ideal, but it beats pouring money down the rental drain when we could build equity instead.Is Oakland a good market for house hacking?