Prices are high and with Hawaii STR taxes it's a lot tougher than first glance.

So far I haven't had any issues with these tenants - they're either high income earners or long term tenants who take care of the units.

Getting a mortgage without a job will be near impossible without going with an alternative loan product that will come with a high down payment and high interest, which is not the "househacking" way. 

My options are:Sell: Maximize down payment in NC, reduce debt.HELOC+Rent: Keep NJ property as an investment, rent for potential $3,300/month.I'm interested in long-term wealth building.

I'm not personally associated but know the folks and highly recommend them.

Ensure the DSCR calculations work with the high LTV and your credit score, especially if the lender won't use MTR or STR income.Lender Criteria: Some lenders won't work with new operators, some only use market rent, and others will use STR estimates or income statements from property managers with similar properties.I hop the bullet points make it easier to understand.

Let’s say your high bid was $100,000 and you refuse to close.

The real estate market is strong with property value remaining high. 

These tools streamline your analysis and improve your due diligence.Finally, build relationships with sellers, property managers, and agents.

Do what successful people have done for thousands of years: increase income, reduce expenses, and invest slowly and steadily over time.