Finally, most people I've met in the country (and elsewhere) who love to stay in short-term rentals and dislike all-inclusive generally dislike Punta Cana.Of course, it's another story if you buy (partly) for lifestyle purposes, as you might just be happy enjoying your property and covering your costs.Thank you for the insight, I know a few friends making money there thru Airbnb and I was looking for more insights  I’m assuming you don’t own real estate? 

In terms of cash reserves outside of that we don't have anything substantial saved (our savings went to the earnest money) so our priority is to pay down the HELOC and increase income.

At 6-months no rent you're bleeding money. 

Now we do 20+ flips/brrrs per year and raise money for them.

You could also use hard money or rental financing, but you'd need to make sure it will allow beginner investors.

Are you ok with giving someone money and losing some of the control?

CA investors still make money. 

Its easy for a contractor to spend your money and say replace things.

I have sites you can purchase where we can 2x your money in less than a year all cash through zoning and entitlements.

Aggressively pay off the mortgage and save a lot of money on interest.