Look for borderlines, where the ghetto morphs into a comparatively nice street of houses, and figure out what anchors that area.

@Sean Morrisey you can do it the traditional way and find another property to 1031 it into or there are a few new options out there.

-Speak to local agents or other traditional lenders who may have a referral.Mark Ferguson goes over this in detail in his article here:https://investfourmore.com/2013/05/12/how-to-find-a-portfolio-lender-who-will-finance-multiple-investment-properties/Hope this helps and best of luck!

My husband and I are comparing possibilities where we live (Nashville, TN) to where we grew up in Indiana.

@Rangsey Chum These would be great questions for a mortgage broker, if you’re looking for traditional financing options.

Traditional banks I’ve spoken with will only give me a cash out refi based off the original loan amount and money I owe now.

If you are reporting this Income in the tax return, they would compare your financial with the tax return. 

I will keep that in mind when comparing the rates.

The lender doesn't want to see a dramatic drop off of overtime in the last 12 months compared to the previous 12 month period.

Do you have enough to refinance into a traditional loan and get your full VA eligibility back?