Shopping for a HELOC

[Richard Matthew Prock-Golan]

So, I'm beginning to look for a bank to get a HELOC, but I've read that the big banks (Citi, BofA, etc) won't do it. I live in NYC, but I'll be looking at properties outside of the city for obvious reasons. Where should I be looking to get the HELOC? What are some considerations I'll need to think about regarding the loan and monthly payment?

Someone told me that I should get a HELOC and, after spending the money, refinance to combine into one low interest loan. I'm not going to lie, I didn't understand it, but it sounded good.

Thank you in advance!