Essentially your cost of money for the down payment is the after tax cost of debt...your home equity line interest rate after taxes versus the interest you are earning on your savings...I am guessing the cost of the equity line interest is more than what you are earning in the savings account...either way, I also suggest hiring a professional property manager to start with.  

I would suggest finding a local trusted broker or attorney who can advise on specifics for a fee.

I do not know too much about the Austin market, but I always suggest the same things when it comes to Turnkey.

I highly suggest you to read, "The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Real Estate Investing."

If you are starting out I would suggest getting a single family home first.

I spoke with a representative from Homeaway the other day and they suggested I drop down to the pay per booking.

Lastly, are there any suggested local REIAs or meetups?

need some book advice.

hello everyone! long time bigger pocket podcast listener looking for boom recommendations. im going to pitch to some investors in a couple months on acquiring a large apartment complex. looking...

We may eventually use it for an Airbnb and might do a version of what @Jim K. suggested :) Really though, I agree with @Mitch Messer, talk the the tenant and agree to amicably conclude the lease and let them out.

I will be sure to keep your suggestions in mind as I move forward!