5 paid-off rentals vs. 15 rentals with mortgages. We get this question a lot: Should I pay off my rental properties or use the cash flow to keep scaling? Many investors believe you need a dozen or more rentals to become financially free. So, in today’s show, we’re going to show you theoverlooked math behind having five paid-off rental properties, and whether it’s worth it to keep scaling to over a dozen doors.

I’ve modeled out both scenarios (pay off rentals vs. buy more) to see which gets you to financial freedom faster, which leaves you with a bigger net worth, and which pumps out more cash flow so you can do what you want with your time. We’re using real, inflation-adjusted numbers: $400K home prices, $250/month cash flow, 30-year loans. These are the types of deals we’re buying even in 2026.

So which scenario would Dave pick? Dave has a clear answer on the option he thinks is best for most real estate investors, and what to do if you pay off your rental properties but want to scale slowly when the right deal arrives.

If you’ve got some cash burning a hole in your pocket, this is the episode to hear before you make a move. 

In This Episode We Cover

5 paid-off rental properties vs. 15 rentals with mortgages: which makes more money?

How much faster do you reach financial freedom if you pay off your mortgages early?

The multi-million dollar difference between the two scenarios (but is it worth it?)

How Dave is combining the two scenarios to “harvest” his cash flow while scaling

Proof you don’t need a huge portfolio to become a multimillionaire 

And So Much More!

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