I recognize this is not the sole source of return, but the other sources have their return increase with smaller equity position. 

Without knowing any of your financial position of your work or side hustles it is hard to give you exact advice because you may be able to carry these homes until they are paid off and in that case they would provide solid returns, but there are likely better real estate investments out there.  

Today, I analyzed over 10 condos, and while I found one with a positive cash-on-cash return, it was far from impressive.I’d love to hear from experienced condo investors about why this type of real estate might make sense despite the low cash-on-cash returns and HOA fees that cannot be influenced.As a bonus, if anyone has purchased investment properties for their children with a similar goal, I’d really appreciate any insights about your process or results.I am looking at buying 2 investment condos for my children to pay for their college tuition in 13-15 years.

Are they part of the pref equity position?

If they are CF positive then they will not cohnt against your DTI but will improve it...that's standard conventional guidelines barring a few exceptions.

Please reach out to us through our website and we'll be happy to help you further there.

As others have pointed out, you are actually in a great position!

that we’ve learned in our 24 years, managing almost 700 doors across the Metro Detroit area, including almost 100 S8 leases:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+ (roughly 5% probability of default), zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680 (around 10% probability of default), some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

The Numbers:Cash Flow Analysis: Investors typically look for properties that will generate positive cash flow—meaning the income from rent covers the property’s expenses (mortgage, taxes, maintenance, etc.) and then some.

There's also a calculator on my website that will help you navigate different scenarios.