Self employed and equity in home

[Paulina Espinoza]

Hi everyone, I am a newbie in investing in Small Family Rentals. After more than a year, finally moving from my analysis paralysis, I made an offer on a duplex . Since my house has equity, at least $200,000 from an appraisal from last year, my plan was to use the equity to make the down payment.  Since I am self employed, mostly paid in cash, my income tax shows only an average of what I made per year because my income varies as self employed.  I can not get a loan because my income tax shows low income in average.  With this home equity, what else can I do? I want my house equity start working form me.  I really appreciate your advice.