I work full time (own my own business and can be somewhat flexible) and I am about 3 years from retirement.

@Rob Everetts, I forgot to add that I cashed out my retirement account.  

I’ve watched multiple episodes on YouTube and I’m excited to join and learn about real estate, retirement and money management. 

I've worked in technology sales/mgmt for 28 years and have done well, but probably need to work 5 more years to ensure a comfortable retirement and legacy for the kids.

I can only see three reasons to deleverage, if:1) You are retiring and prioritizing the establishment of a stable income stream.

Visit often and then retire there?

Do you hvave retirement or another place to get the funds?

It's not going to retire you in 5 year but give it 10 - 15 and you're likely sitting pretty.That said, it's not as easy to pull off as it sounds and not as smooth sailing as folks will make it out to be.

First just want to state, she is your girlfriend not your wife, which is very different in regards to financial status/situation.For me its simple, I am buying this asset and taking on the risk of renovating it and as part of it will be seeking to earn income from it to better myself in the future as I know a W2 job and a 401k does not get you far in retirement.

I have “retired” with a lot of toys (missing a plane but maybe in the next year).