It’s not finding deals.It’s not analyzing deals.It’s not even raising capital.It’s understanding your financing strategy.The investors I see scaling the fastest aren’t buying more properties — they’re using smarter leverage:• DSCR for rentals• Bridge loans for transitional deals• Refinance strategies to unlock trapped equity• New construction loans to build inventory when MLS is tightWhat’s one financing strategy that helped you grow faster — or one you wish you used sooner?

While local deals are a top priority, I'm also open to opportunities in Jacksonville, Florida, given the promise of strong returns and growth potential.I'm actively building my skills and knowledge in fix-and-flip investments, value-add projects, and creative financing strategies.

What helped me, and what I’m most passionate about, is simplifying the process: pick one strategy, learn just enough to take your next step, and ignore everything that isn’t tied to that first move.Houston has a solid investor community, so keep connecting, keep asking questions, and find a few people who are a bit ahead of you.

Quote from @William Thompson: One thing I’ve noticed working with a lot of investors is this:People spend a ton of time researching markets, strategies, and financing…but almost no time building the habits that actually keep their portfolio healthy long-term.Here’s the simple truth:Your systems will make or break your growth.Not the market.Not the deal.Not even the interest rate.I’ve seen investors with average deals but great systems outperform people buying in the best markets with none.Things like:Keeping clean booksTracking expenses in real timeReviewing your numbers monthlyHaving a game plan before tax seasonThese aren’t exciting, but they’re the difference between “I think I made money” and “I know exactly what’s working.”Real estate is more forgiving than most businesses… but eventually, disorganization catches up.The investors who last are the ones who treat it like a business early — even when they only own one door.What’s one system or habit that’s helped you stay organized as your portfolio grows? 

I am just having a hard time deciding what my beginning strategy should be.

We'll be stopping in Austin, Houston, and DFW and are planning community networking events, a strategy workshop, a live podcast, and an intimate supper club gathering.The live BiggerPockets podcast with Dave and Henry is just north of Dallas!

There are also some other military-specific tax strategies out there you might consider and layering real estate strategy on top puts you in a really strong spot.Honestly, you can’t go wrong with what you’re considering.

These "cutting edge" RE tax strategies are not new. 

I'm concerned about my HELOC exit strategy as the cash flow will likely cover the HELOC interest and maybe a little of the principle, but it seems I would be paying back the HELOC over a long period of time. 

I run a passive investor club where we help newer and experienced investors connect with vetted opportunities, learn how to evaluate deals, and build long-term strategies without having to take on everything alone.