Hi Elwin, I have access to a few HELOC options for investment properties.

There's no one MTR site so tools like Airdna don't have access to the data to pull vacancy rates. 2.

Some savvy flipper reconfigured the upstairs to add a bedroom but in the process, closed off most of the attic, leaving only a crawl space that did not even allow access to the entire attic!  

Maybe access the equity via a cash out refi (check the after refi cash flow). 

So I’ve since blocked off the third floor on one side and rented it as a 1 BR for now. but when the other side leaves eventually I’m starting to lean towards raising the ground grade 28” so that the total drop is less than 20’and then I’ll knock down some walls and make the whole 3rd floor attached only to that last unit so that the whole area can use the stairs and that window as second egress. 

But it will be complicated by different factors such as flood zone, topology, conservation area, easements, access to roads and more.Zoning - check the code and check site zoning.

I would suggest you build up a bit more liquid assets just to diversify and also have assets you can quickly access if needed.

Haha Hey @Jacob Pereira Sorry to get your hopes up - I spoke without thinking in my excitement to talk about 1031s and skipped over a crucial stumbling block for your dream strategy ;) Allow me to clarify:So, if you live in one side of the duplex for two years within the five years prior to the sale, then it is considered residence use.

Purchase price: $88,000 Cash invested: $44,811 Sale price: $190,000 1 bed 1 bath 3rd floor walk-up just a block from the lake in Roger's Park.

You need to be talking with a broker who has access to a bunch of lenders vs a lender who only has a couple of DSCR outlets.