Last year we refinanced to a 7 year balloon so don't really care what happens to the interest rate for our existing investments.The one new building we added late 2022 was 100% rented out early in 2023. 

I would rent out your current residence, use either conventional or FHA financing to get 3.5%-5% down and house hack your next investment property.

Navigating this situation requires careful consideration.

He does all the work necessary at all my properties including snow removal and lawn care.

I literally have taken care of everything.

I currently work in the health care industry but my family background is construction and rental properties. 

We also assume this is your primary residence, not an investment property (much more on that below).

No one is going to care for your place like you and they are going to charge anywhere from 15-30% commission.

So I still buy even knowing the value may drop a little in the short term (but you see I don’t care as I am looking long term) for future benefits. 

It doesn't make sense how the status of my 2nd home would change because I don't own my primary residence.