Then, you can review the provided specifications to determine if they meet your preferences or are appealing to you.

The biggest issue I observe amongst real estate investors is the inability to articulate the reasons why they should transfer properties or simply own properties from day 1 in an LLC.

Consider your credit score and history to determine your eligibility for traditional or creative financing.

During that time they determine whether or not the unit is "worth" the increase, from what I've seen as long as it comes to FMR of the area determined by HUD it should pass. 

I am trying to determine whether these cities are good markets to invest in.

Simply letting your mother live in the property rent free would make it personal property. 

What factors do you think I should consider to determine if it makes sense?

As always, visit with your agent about your specific policy to determine possible coverage. 

You are simply NOT operating correctly.

I don't think I fully understand using HELOC to pay points and holding costs only.Taz, that was my initial thought as well - even though it would hurt to get rid of a 3.5% interest rate, I could get an equivalently priced home with today's conventional primary residence rates and have about the same monthly payments that I have today, simply because of the HOA fees.