Of course there is a cost, but it's worth it to find deals. 

However, he has never paid principal, interest, or taken a deduction on the property (he lent his name and credit so I could purchase the property when I was younger).

Of course the tenant will not show, and you will win.

There is no risk in establishing the HELOC (assuming you one can be responsible with such a thing) - its a line of credit, not a loan.

Most credit card members can borrow against their card up to $25K.

The current landlord started putting in carpet to reduce noise complaints.Of course carpet is expensive to replace and a lot of tenants destroy the carpet.In the past, I've always Costco laminate floors,  zero carpet, in all rentals.

If you have your tenants paying heat you should mandate it be with your vendor of choice so the same tank can remain in place.The fuel provider will also very likely run a credit check on the tenant so be prepared for that. 

Of course then you will have people asking you how does the dog get the door open.

I am connected with several lenders that do small loan amounts nationwide, as well as large lines of credit, assuming that the home is an investment and not personal use.

Also, it should be easy to find hard money, and maybe even a credit union that will lend if they could be in first position.That's all I can think of right now.