Just the appreciation, mortgage pay down, and the tax benefits should offset any downturn in the market if that should occur.

I gave them the benefit of the doubt considering the pandemic and trying to find a good tenant who isn't trying to take advantage of the renter moratorium.

Typically, they expect to see a lower cost of living while they're living there and are okay with that knowing they will reap the benefits of learning how to manage their rental, screen tenants, and will see equity and appreciation and hopefully, a decent amount of cash flow after they move on to their next house hack. 

VA can go jumbo in California and is a WONDERFUL veterans benefit.

On one hand I feel like it's just a shuffling of money, and on the other I can't help but think there would be tax benefits to this.

Joining a mastermind would be a huge benefit to someone in your position.

Disclaimer: I am NOT getting paid to say this and I receive no financial benefit from BP for my comments below.

In Long-Distance Real Estate Investing, Greene discusses amortization and the benefits of paying down loans quickly.

@Erich HensonSeems like you would benefit from selling all those properties and buying a YUUUUUGE apartment complex!

I get it for you as the buyer.. was just saying not sure what the benefit to the seller is unless the seller is getting a premium on price the tax is the tax regardless of when you pay it.