Hey Claire, since your property is paid off, a HELOC or cash out refinance could help you access equity to fund another property.

If they do not respond, then they do not get access, and their belongings are legally "abandoned" by them.

Nothing wrong with this approach but what you want is a measurable, predictable number of potential deals flowing your way so I wouldn't recommend relying solely on the passive deal search.You may have access to information to help you prospect for these deals on your own.

Key conservatorship issues to considerAny plan to exit Fannie and Freddie’s conservatorship should promote market liquidity, and thus, access to mortgage credit.

The lease should have a provision that requires the T to comply with HOA rules.

Consider reaching out to a local Rental Owners Association to connect with experienced hosts, gain valuable insights, and access resources that can help you navigate property management more effectively.

Here's how I’ve successfully found off-market properties:Direct Mail: You can pull lists of absentee owners, tax delinquencies, probate properties, and more, and send them direct mail offering a cash sale.Driving for Dollars: This means driving through neighborhoods looking for distressed properties and either leaving a note on the door or contacting the owner.Cold Calling: Use public records or services like Prop Stream to pull lists, then contact owners directly by phone to see if they’re interested in selling.Networking with Agents: Many real estate agents work with investors and have access to off-market deals (pocket listings).

So, the extra unit may cost you more then it brings if you cannot access equity or if the market discounts the property when you go to sell due to financing available.

This allows you to access some of your equity without needing to refinance your first positions.

Do you have $4mm to $20mm you can access?