I would say the same for employees who need say a second advance on their wages (we allow one).I am willing to make a personal loan if an employee really needs it and you could consider doing it that way with a tenant in need.

I’ve read quite a few posts about foreign investor financing but most seem to deal with non-citizen investors without US credit or personal tax filings.

Does anyone know an investor friendly tax/attorney person that I can talk to and can guide me through this process? 

I have also utilized owner financing for longer periods of time, including personal residence and 2 barrier island houses on the coast of Florida.  

When all the dust settles, and the  person searching is tired and discouraged and gives up, Jerry may not have bought  a single lot, but he's made some money from the training he sold you, which was his main goal from the beginning!

Usually my time spent with newbies last a minimum of 1-2 hours on our first meeting (either in person or on the phone).  

If you use the Heloc option and decide to rent it out, don't forget that property (or you) will have to cover both your primary and secondary position notes.I don't personally see Marin being a great mid term market.

We have been able to get some great deals simply by doing extra research that the average person wasn't willing to do.

It is my understanding that people refinance and then use those funds other ways (personal living, investing, some to buy another property) as a means to minimize tax obligation. 

It sounds like you've done a great job in investing in yourself and taking personal risks.