I started keeping two months security deposit instead of last months rent so we are better protected from from damages or unpaid rent in case a tenant trashes the place during their first year and the cost exceeds one months wort of rent.

If you guys come accross another created account impersonating me, please keep me posted!

Should I keep it and borrow against it?

Keep in mind HELOCs are interest only payments, adjustable rates, and will eventually turn into a fully amortized loan (usually after 3-10 years).Cash Out Refinances are great when you need the cash for long term needs or consolidating debt.

in my portfolio i have some that break even that I am keeping because they are in great areas, and others that cash flow $100-300, but only because I have rates in the 4s or lower on them.  

I would keep that in mind with every decision.

There seems to be a growing popularity with higher cash flow and growing appreciation in these markets as higher priced markets keep getting out of range for numbers to make sense.

What I do, however, do is this -Prior to the appraisal even being ordered, I put a CBS code on the supra box and keep it a closely-guarded secret.

I've got my eye on crunching numbers with the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) to keep ahead of any potential market dips.Cheers,Keeya

Protect your investments by keeping as much control as possible.