I got a 1099-INT from him to file my tax, which I paid a big portion out of 8% (effectively around 6% after paying the gov). 

If you have other area I should check out please let me know.

These cash outs got me 14 houses with no out of pocket $.

I am beginning to worry after the recent fires, so I am starting now. 

This is obviously much better than $1,400 per month.On top of that, you will now get 2x the depreciation write-off so your taxes should go down.On top of that, you will now get 2x the appreciation when real estate price go up.On top of that, your tenants are helping you pay down the loan, initially at about $100/mo for both properties, which gradually gets better and better.On top of that, you now have more units so if one or two goes vacant, you have more renters covering the losses of the vacant units.If you want to keep these properties, I would do a cash-out refi and go buy more rental real estate.

Hi Steven,Welcome to the Forums.Wishing you both the best as you get started!

We stuck it out, paid our dues on time.

If you are looking to start with development I would check out these resources: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-319https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/44https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/why-investors-should-be-f...

I know during covid some started giving them access remotely, but this is exactly why I think it is a problem. 

Unlike refinancing, which involves taking out a new loan, recasting keeps your existing loan terms—including your interest rate and loan duration—intact.