If anyone has faced a similar issue with an HOA or has suggestions for next steps, I’d really appreciate your insights.

It seems like we have similar plans and interests in real estate investing, I would be happy to connect and bounce ideas off of each other.

I recently helped a friend who was in a similar position - looking to tap into equity for a rental property purchase in Phoenix.

The average commission in other developed countries is actually very similar to that of the US: https://tranio.com/articles/real_estate_agents_commissions_i... 

@Zach Howard the basics of the Rental Purchase Calculator is easy to understand and replicate.Google and you can find many similar spreadsheets for free.

I doubt you'll find a MF that you can get into for 40-45k that will give a similar return that isn't in a terrible neighborhood.

My question is, If one is to be strictly commission based, Is finding a broker with mortgage industry similar to finding a broker with real estate?

It's like drafting a rookie QB and expecting to win the Super Bowl his rookie year.Based on the tax increase, my assumption is you chose a great appreciating neighborhood and have a similar mentality to me. 

I'm in a similar situation.

Quote from @Paul Gupta: Hi, in California, For jobs requiring a license, there was CSLB (contractor state licensing board) which would give either a General Contractor license, or specialty licenses by trade (~60 specialties such as concrete, welding tile, ) https://www.cslb.ca.gov/about_us/library/licensing_classific...My Q: does Maryland and DC area have similar requirements?