What monthly benefit do you get out of it?

Just make sure it’s titled in both your names if you both go on the loan.Option 3: Use Cash — Least Risk, Least LeverageUsing your HYSA/CDs can make the deal stress-free and get you better pricing with sellers (cash closes move fast)But: It kills your liquidity and limits scalabilityIn an inflationary market, your cash is losing purchasing power unless it's working for youA smart hybrid: Use cash for down payment + closing, finance the rest with a loan (conventional or DSCR), and keep the HELOC untouched as a backup reserve or for rehab funds.My Recommendation: The “Hybrid Stack”Based on your situation, here’s a strong game plan:Use the HELOC for the down payment (this lets your cash stay liquid and interest-only eases the early cash flow drag)Finance the rest with a conventional loan (fixed rate, long-term hold benefits)Keep your cash reserve as a safety net for capex, vacancy, or a second dealThis gives you:Flexibility (via HELOC)Stability (via 30-year mortgage)Liquidity (keep your cash!)

One significant benefit is gaining direct access to MLS data, enabling you to identify potential deals more quickly than the general public.

If you plan to live in the property, you’ll need to use FHA or conventional owner-occupied financing.If you want to house hack, an FHA loan with 3.5% down on a 3–4 unit is a strong option—low down payment, rental income, and depreciation benefits.

My husband and I are exploring co-living but saw this as a niche of sorts that can benefit the community.

I think any seller without much knowledge of being the lender would appreciate the added benefits and hassle free approach using a third party.

.- If you're involving another partner, I don't think you can take advantage of VA loan benefits.

Contact me if you need additional information on tax benefits and increased cash-flow.   

I’m sure your unique talents will be a benefit to all of us.And I’m sure you’ll be successful at it.Good Luck!

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