I'm not necessarily looking to invest in this area (probably upstate), but looking to meet people in the area I can learn from/build a like-minded community to keep me motivated.

I am considering keeping my current personally owned home/farm and renting it as horse owner property. already completely set for 2-4 horses. my personal interest rate on the property is 2.6% and I don't want to loose it.

Your debt you are taking out does not incur any taxable event, so using that capital for your purposes is wise if you want to keep the asset the debt is held against, assuming your getting a better rate of return then if you didn't have the debt. 

It does have paid for solar so that keeps the utilities low.

You have a great rate right now and will want to keep that.

What do you mean? 

However, lots of CUs and Locals are requiring you to keep deposits with them if you want a loan - typically around the 10% mark.

I am able to keep my bills paid, but am owed more than the investor is able to currently pay. 

A 2 year old lease only means 1 years at MTM.

Hi there,I have been meaning to start real estate investing for a while now and I believe I am ready to take the next step.