Cash or Lending - which is better?

[Jessey Kwong]

I'm looking to invest in property south of the border (I'm in Canada, looking to invest in the states).  If I am looking to do a buy and hold - should I see if I can get lending and pay a portion downpayment? 

OR should I avoid lending at all cost and simply use cash to purchase?  

To me on the surface, paying cash is the better option as I avoid paying any lending interest..... BUT in terms of growing having all my capital locked up in one place as i want to grab more properties....thoughts?