Best Funding for multiple low cost houses

[Xela Batchelder]

I am investigating the possibility to buy a previous landlord's local portfolio. Most of the properties are in the $30,000 -$40,000 range. While I have cash to purchase it (via HELOC and similar). I would like to finance it if possible, so I have less cash in the deal. I've heard of Portfolio Loans. How do these loans work? What are the pros and cons of this type of loan? What types of banks do these types of loans? (or any lenders I should talk to?) Are there other ways to finance this type of deal? Do I need to wait 6 months to finance these after I buy them? This is all new territory for me, so any advice (even beyond just the funding situation) is super helpful.