It sounds like you've been waiting along time to do it, so take the opportunity.Once the house is built, you could use your current home as a rental if the numbers work.

@August Kahle sounds like a good plan.

And yes, typically it's most cost-effective to pull all the equity at once rather than multiple refinances.

At least federally, if your capital gains tax rate is 15%, you are paying 15cents on the dollar of your capital GAIN --- not the value of the house, just the effective profit. 

Sounds like maybe some second thoughts about the buy down? 

If he does he'll understand cost effective ways to raise efficiency and lower operating cost.

Would my subcontractor be covered for his employees if he paints exterior trim on my Maryland property but his workers comp is effective only in VA?  

Any specific strategies you found effective?

Sounds like you have made a great start so far.

I have been doing one a 3-10 minute cold swims in Long Island sound (45 degree to 38 degree water) one to three times a week so far this winter, usually in the mornings after my workout and a warm shower or sauna to follow.