I would say compare terms, seasoning period requirements (Assuming when you mentioned construction loan you're talking about a rehab project), response time of your rep, learn as much about their loan underwriting and approval process as you can.

HELOC money is expensive money... so i think you need to take another look at the expenses and make sure you're including all of them - not just PITI.and you may know this, but i'll remind you - HELOC payments are usually interest only for the first few years during the draw period. 

Then I had 2 fridges die within about a 3 month period.

There are specific rules for 1031 exchanges including:The replacement property must be identified within 45 days of transferring the relinquished property.The replacement property must be received within 180 days after the transfer of the relinquished property or the due date of the taxpayer's tax return, whichever is earlier.Special rules apply for exchanges between related parties (defined in § 267(b) or 707(b)(1)).Real property located in the United States and real property located outside the United States are not considered property of like kind.Cost Segregation StudiesA Cost Segregation study is an IRS approved federal income tax tool that increases near term cash flow by utilizing shorter recovery periods for depreciation to accelerate return on investment.

Is it easy to accomplish within a short period of time like within a couple months? 

No seasoning period.

I assume the first day of the month, which means the "end of the monthly period" is the last day of the month.

There is no statutory holding period before you convert an investment property to your primary residence. 

You can have both accounts for a period of time until you move everything over, then you can close your Wells Fargo accounts.Frankly, Wells Fargo has been a frustration... they won't allow mobile deposit over $2,500 and you can't send a wire transfer online for over $10K -  they make you go to the branch (what a joke!!!). 

Cook County Property Tax Incentives: Cook County has a tax incentive program that allows projects to receive a special property classification for a 12 year period that lowers annual property taxes by as much as 50% through the term of the incentive program.