I would then want to know if there are any access easements to the rail line or restrictive covenants on the property which would negatively impact my ability to develop the land.Lastly, my concern would be environmental.

Either way, there are options for you to access the equity. 

A real estate agent will have access to the multiple listing service (MLS), which gives you a list of low-cost properties, such as foreclosures and short sales.Find your target marketTo find a potential house to flip, one of your first moves is to find your target market.

Parking, access and more needs to be factored in. 

They have access to the data accurate data.

because each time hit with realization of the BS, the whole game is rigged that it's not BS, it's just you havn't gotten to that other thing, that next level, that other access, and it keeps ya going layer after layer after fee after membership. 

If you're uncomfortable giving access to the unit for showings (after prescreening) use a Realtor for tenant placement.

What if you aren't just an engineer, but own a successful business already, yet want to be a part-time agent for MLS access (as an investor) and to get more involved in the industry? 

Maybe it’s the commercial lender in me, but I think it’s good business practice to retain, or at the very least have access to, all notices and documents that were given to the tenant.

In an emergency situation you could always access the HELOC at 8%-13%.This emergency situation should be considered before the funds are accessed with either method, can you afford to have no savings AND be paying 8%-13%.