Houses are complex systems where lots of stuff can go wrong and there are lots of opportunities for improvement. 

We've got a group of students in one, a young couple who just moved to the area and doesn't want to buy yet in another, and a professional in the third who's opening up a new branch of his company here.I think proximity to the cool stuff of a city is almost more important than trying to tailor your location to a specific group.

They are unprofessional and irresponsible, this stuff impacts us as landlords and has real-world consequences.

@Michelle Murtha - I think you will see some stuff start to really move pretty soon on BP, and in a way that you will like! 

If the HELOC amount you're requesting is relatively low (often below $100,000), lenders might waive the full appraisal.Drive-By Appraisal : Instead of a full interior inspection, a drive-by appraisal involves the appraiser evaluating the exterior of the property only.Desktop Appraisal : This type of appraisal is conducted remotely using data and photos provided by the homeowner or real estate agents.Based on the little knowledge that I have about stuff like this it sounds like you need to connect with existing lenders in your network or find new lenders in your network that have programs aligned with your goals.

If I had known how much I would enjoy sailing/cruising I think I would have sold all my stuff and my house and bought a newer, bigger boat ;).

But given that the renovation was done such a long time ago, there are some wear and tear, like Window and HVAC, shower handle and stuff, so we have been updating those one thing at a time, and I'm hoping that this house can handle another 20 year so the $ we poured in for the new set of windows are worth it...Would appreciate any thoughts!

Some stuff you can get an "estimate" for from a GC just off the square footage. 

Also, I think a newer building would make my life as a landlord a lot easier since I don't have much experience and wouldn't have to worry as much about stuff breaking down all the time. 

Stuff like that cant be unseen - if something unfavorable is discovered, it's permanent.