It depends on the lender but at a min they must follow TX SML or lending laws in the state in order to compliantly lend in TX, on whether choose to apply this guideline to all types of occupancies or transaction types (non owner investment, second homes/primary residences, etc)80-85LTV on rental properties is only on the purchase for fannie/freddie loans but on rate term refinances its max 80% and cash out max 75% for 1 unit and up to 70% for 2-4 unit cash out conventional.On HELOC's and rentals are up to 70-75% depending on the HELOC investor or product.Its good to distinguish between what the lenders are willing to do and for which product and also these loan products must abide my state law as well as an additiona layer of "overlays," on top as well (whichever is worst / most conservative).

Try to narrow down your options to the top 3-4.

I think that's fantastic - my main reason for posting is just to remind people that there are plenty of different ways to make money in (and outside of) real estate.  

well 70% of 455ks isnt much more than you currently owe at 283k the 70% of 455k is 318.5k and after closing items you might only net 20-30k tops (new loan minus current 283k - closing items = net proceeds in "hand.").So The question you should be thinking about is what are my closing items and is this enough cash to accomplish my mission/goal?

So sticks to path of progress, real top shelf A quality properties.

I am not not super familiar with the auctions or sheiff sales, but if you are interested in NW Indiana consider connecting with @Eudith Vacio who has some property in East Chicago, but works that NW Indiana Coordior and is a top agent!

The engineer can help with this estimate, but local contractors are the top source for getting this info. 

I believe this situation was handled in a way congruent with BiggerPockets values and ethos - information was discovered, we gave the user in question an opportunity to respond publicly to the allegations, other members of the community chimed in to make comments and ask questions of their own, I made the decision to close the post because I believe many of the top viewpoints were discussed and I didn't want it to turn into shameless trolling with no additional value, that whole thread remains up for community members to view into the future for transparency and anyone who reads it can form their own opinions with the information presented.

On top of the the borrower most likely owns it outright or has a small balance left on the loan.

Based on the value of a property you can likely get away with a inexpensive desk top study such as condos and you will require a more comprehensive engineering study for larger properties like a 4plex.Desktop / modeling options are sometimes good for smaller residential like you mention.