I know if I stay consistent, something will drop.  

When i read about how their deal was really messed up with most investor probably going to take huge loss's its not shocking.. you have to stay right on top of these and have the manpower to do it.

Can stay in the same budget and use the excess to invest or trade up.

For this, I'd recommend being prepared with the terms you're willing to accept in such a situation and staying firm.

Single night stays in a crowed city are a guarantee for a party.

Very brief summary of article: CTA has a issued a nationwide Stay on the January 1, 2025 deadline for beneficial ownership reporting to the (Federal) Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

Also, starting my journey in real state investment made change my mindset and since last year I have been more disciplined on my finances and I have been taking better decision on how I spend my money. 

Does anyone know if there is any flexibility here, including if I can keep the HELOC if I have had it for 12 months (so stayed in the Primary Residence for a year after the HELOC started)?

That's too much effort required to earn a few dollars on a short-term stay.

Quote from @Kenzer Hodgson: Quote from @Trent Reeve: personally, i think a dynamic pricing tool will pay for itself (should be around $20/month). it will help with far out/near time pricing, minimum stays, etc.