We are paying almost $2k in interest only payments per month on the outstanding HELOC balance. 

Yes Grayson,Cashflow is hard to come by now.You shouldn't be looking at real estate to get rich tomorrow or gain massive amounts of capital now.But as you own the property for years the rents will increase, the asset price will rise, and your loan balance will go down.

You can connect your bank account to monitor your expenses and check your balances.

When it comes down to it, let’s say that the child support income is less reliable than you initially thought, and you decide to evict a tenant and collect the balance due.

You can also focus on dividend growth stocks within your taxable account, as dividends can be taxed at lower rates, especially if you hold long-term.By balancing real estate with traditional investment strategies like bonds, stocks, and tax-efficient accounts, you’ll have a diversified approach that generates tax-advantaged income while minimizing risk.Let me know if you need help strategizing further or exploring real estate financing options!

We find they are more worried about the final balance due or refund.

It makes sense to be cautious of paying for projections rather than the current reality, especially when you're the one who'll need to take on the risk and effort to achieve that potential.When it comes to negotiating, I think it's about finding a balance.

- Why can't you buy now and use savings to pay down your mortgage balance to get rid or PMI?

Those who strike the correct in between balance are generally those who are most successful.

You do not need to go that extreme, and as I get older I'm understanding more and more of the value of balance.