I do like the tax benefits and leverage.

Despite the equity We also want to take advantage of tax advantages we did stay in the property for 2 years !  

Tax liens2.

Since you're looking to expand into Florida and other states, I'd recommend starting by narrowing down your focus:Market Research – Florida has great opportunities, but each state and city has different laws, taxes, and demand drivers.

And that is probably what has saved me over the last year or two. 

Yes, you can “save” interest by paying off a loan faster - SO WHAT?  

Salaries, compensation, rent, taxes, utilities, fees, MLS, etc.The flat fee model is a recipe for disaster."

THEN, I plan to purchase the second home using a FHA or conventional loan (3%-5% down), for which I will likely pay the monthly cost out-of-pocket, maybe with some rental income support if it is a duplex.My concern is, I do not want to spend my savings or weigh down my debt-to-income ratio so much so that I cannot qualify for and pay the down payment and closing for the lending on the second home.Questions: - With the first home being multi-family, 75% of the rental income (or potential rental income initially) will relatively either maintain or boost my debt-to-income ratio from lenders' perspectives, right? 

I know some investors use them as a tax-advantaged way to grow their portfolios, and I’d be curious to hear your thoughts on that.Looking forward to your insights!

I understand I wouldn't get the benefit of tax deductions, but what else am I missing that makes this a good deal?