Thank you for the explanation!

If you were starting from scratch and have complete geographical flexibility, where would you start that has decent cash flow but at the same time, possibility for appreciation based on a growing economy?

I'd guess the laws would be the same but geographically may not work for him.  

Very detailed in your explanation.

His explanation is some pymts are in cash and he doesn't always put them in the bank I.e.

I know someone will give a more detailed explanation.

I'm located in the bay area so there really isn't a thing I can do with this kind of money and I am open to looking at deals in a much different geographical area as long as the deal is right.

Did you write a long letter of explanation that explains your intentions and why you are downgrading your lifestyle?

@Ivan Barratt great explanation Can I quote you

FYI, in case you're wondering, here's a quick explanation as to my thinking when I say that the optimal choice from a mathematical standpoint is to NOT pay down the mortgage: To analyze this, you have to ask yourself a couple questions: First: What is your short-term and long-term downside to buying rental properties right now in Grand Rapids?