I am trying to leverage my home's equity to access investment funds but I've run into a road block.

We do have access to a HELOC on the property which we leveraged to purchase our current primary residence (balance borrowed has been fully repaid at this point) but we would rather not pull that lever to roll into a new property given current interest rates and the adjustable nature of the HELOC. 

When considering properties, focus on accessibility to popular attractions and amenities, as these features tend to attract more renters.

There is no reason to buy your own first for experience purposes - and the fact you already live there makes it 'owner occupied' if you end up going with traditional bank financing - which will give you better rates, and access to more programs. 

. • Inclusion of tenants in the association website with "renter" level access. • Inclusion of tenants in the violation system, including sending notices to them when needed. • Regular monitoring of approved leases to ensure proper actions are taken at the leasing expiration and renewal dates. • Preparation of quarterly reports for the Board of Directors outlining the current status of the leasing program. • Coordination with the Association attorney as needed for enforcement of the leasing provisions. • Assessment and collection of costs for this program from the leased units by the authority of the Community Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CCRs), $150/year.

Additionally, Parma's proximity to Cleveland enhances its appeal, offering easy access to urban amenities and employment opportunities without the higher living costs associated with larger cities.

Do you have access to private equity investors or/and key principles and co-sponsors with a track record?

You need their analysis, understanding of marketing, and access to the investors (especially if they also do property mgt).  

Why do you need to pay for a skip tracing service to access property phone numbers?

Once these mortgages are paid off and/or generating more cash flow, we intend to use them as passive income for retirement and retain the option to access the equity for emergencies.