Just to play the devils advocate - if I did a refinance only I could get a 3.25% interest on the new loan and then obtain a HELOC later, still around the 4.25% - 5%. 

Instead, hire a licensed home inspector to check it out.From personal experience, I've only had a few attorneys pull that kind of play, not contractors or managers. 

Judges do not like people playing with the court but if they are Pro Se, a GREAT deal of leeway is given to the debtor.

@DJ Harris that makes perfect sense, I recall seeing a video where that same scenario was being role played.

Not sure if I'm allowed to mention KeyBank but they will loan more than 80% LTV, credit and income requirements in play of course. 

In the future I’d love to leverage as much as possible but for my first one I know it’s a smarter move to play it safe.

remember that every real estate plan works great on paper, real life doesn't play as nice. this program SOUNDS great but there are a lot of things that aren't going to pan out to these optimistic expectations.

I'll go back and see if I can play with the numbers a bit to reflect that.

With the right script, role plays and accountability, however, a  VA could save you tons of time and increase your conversion significantly.Best of luck to you moving forward!

If the Fed increases or reduces the interest at that time, it will be just one small thing In the middle of many other forces into play.