The extra HELOC payment can cause negative cashflow, leading to possible foreclosure and/or bankruptcy.Should you pursue RE investing?

Although the sensible solution to that circumstance would be to sell their house, the reality is that the emotional response to these circumstances is to try to keep their house not sell it.I am not trying to be a negative nancy here.

Just remember: most negative reviews are written by problematic tenants.

I personally like long term rentals, but it sounds like the numbers don't make sense and if you cant afford to or can't justify covering that much negative cash flow then another strategy is renting by the room, that works well if you have or can convert to at least 4 or 5 bedrooms. 

Negative $455/Month and at that price/rent point, poor historical rent growth and appreciation.What is the expected source of return?  

I will share both the positive and the negatives and you can make an informed decision.

If you can find a lender that will borrow you that much, you don’t mind being negative $800 give or take per month, and you don’t have anything for the bank to go after if you fail.

Just remember: most negative reviews are written by problematic tenants.

with the right BRRRR you will be break even, or even cash flow negative, likely for several years. and it's very hands-on and requires a lot of time and effort.the same with flipping. 

They might have even been cash flow negative!