However, you must factor in how much faster you can close on a hard money loan as compared to the typical bank closing time frame.

If you are looking for long-term passive income, the faster you can leverage yourself into these larger properties, the better.

If so, a HELOC usually is faster. 

, payment process for tenant, when will you inspect the property during occupancy in accordance with landlord/tenant laws, how will the security deposit be held...The better prepared you are BEFORE acquiring the property, the faster you can hit the ground running and start earning a return. 

I feel very strongly that your goals will be attained faster and easier if you take advantage of the FHA Lending program to acquire the MAXIMUM amount of units possible (4)...I also see that you feel very strongly that if your wife isn't happy then you are not willing to go that route.First... remember that it is a very temporary sacrifice. 12 Months... that's it... 1 year living in less than optimal conditions... 

This is not to say I haven’t had success with them at all, but I’m looking to grow faster.

or would setting one up be wise/ help me save faster?

By Phase 2 he was able to go faster because a lot of the unknowns were apparent, we had our materials sourced, etc.Regarding rehab costs, we are spending more than what I hear most investors spending at approximately $9500/unit. 

My extra cash is going toward my mortgage - something that Dave Ramsey or anyone will tell you is a good way to save money on mortgage interest and get you out of debt faster - and yours is gathering dust in a checking account and that's what you would prefer that any readers do with their money?

@Bradley LaBrie something I haven’t thought of til just now, being a police officer in my city a lot of the places offer “courtesy apartments” in which we get to stay for freeIf I could see my house for a nice profit and move into a free apartment, I could save money for future down payments much faster , guess I’d be apartment Hacking lol