Equity pay down is worth zero unless you can free it up or when you sell assuming the markets have not taken a dive and you equity has vanished.

I am struggling to search via zillow, etc. and I'm not sure if there aren't that many in the area (doubtful) or if I'm not looking in the right place.The intent would be to 1) add a property to my portfolio and then 2) use the next 12-14 months to gain experience as a property manager/landlord before doing so remotely.I am looking in the $150k (max) price range, and can secure a 5% down VA-"like" loan (which negates the occupancy requirement associated with typical VA loans).FURTHERMORE - TAXESOne thing that I have always hesitated to dive fully in when it comes to real estate investing is the tax.

This is my first real dive into expanding into rentals out of state and I am excited but anticipating issues that I know I will need to learn.If the sheriff sale doesn't tick, then I am picking up a sf prop (the old fashioned way) in Rochester to turn out for student rent. 

I need to dig in deeper to make sure I have adequate coverage.

Might be a waste of time, but you won't know until you start digging into that possibility deeper with local municipal zoning authorities)There are a few more creative options.

Hi Michael,Thanks for your sharing your story, I think the predicament you're in is not atypical and that's the spark that's needed to really dive in and change your financial story.

However, besides using the move in low money down loans, we would not really be able to pull off any 25% down payment deals without getting deeper into foreclosures/networking/higher risk taking in my opinion.We are doing our due diligence on the lender as well since we just met him, asking for books on his other investments in the area, he provided references to other partners, etc. 

What are some of your favorite podcasts, articles, or books about real estate that I should dive into?

so just something to be thinking about and for sure take a deep dive into your 20 page mortgage and read every clause thoroughly and your Note.. 

The meeting last month was several members of the group doing a 'deep dive' into their deals and next month is an Attorney.