This was also an odd deal because this property was so close to the train tracks- it was practically a train car.

I don’t like your odds against the pros, but good luck. 

Heloc's on investment property are actually much more pricier & restrictive than hard money..

. § 227 SEC. 227. [47 U.S.C. 227] RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF TELEPHONE EQUIPMENT(A) to make any call (other than a call made for emergency purposes or made with the prior express consent of the called party) using any automatic telephone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice—

But to say baseless things about Cleveland is well, ,,, You moved TO Columbus from FL, odd.

Are there restrictions on rentals?

The challenge for present day investors is with elevated mortgage rates and record high housing prices, the carrying costs and incentive to invest now can be restrictive. 

If you own it, maybe you can talk to city/local office to see if you have any right to restrictions for use if others are creating hazards on it.

So, glad I'm not the only one that thought this seemed odd. 

The intent is torefinance them once I am done with the rehabs and I want to stay clear of theseasoning restrictions often seen on conventional loans.