Other notes: - Higher density multi family properties can be very hard to secure on the coast, but very profitable.

I’ve had to widen my search radius to smaller suburbs or target properties needing light cosmetic work to make the numbers work.Value-add opportunities: Adding amenities tenants love, like finished basements or upgraded kitchens, seems to justify rent premiums in this market.Navigating the competition:Be creative with financing: Seller financing or partnering with other investors has been helpful to secure deals when conventional offers didn’t cut it.Work with local agents and wholesalers: They often have their finger on the pulse of off-market opportunities, which is critical in a hot market.For those new to suburban Chicago investing, I’d say the key is finding the “sweet spot” neighborhoods—ones on the rise but not yet maxed out in price.

Consider all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

Was it indeed just locked, or did the latch mechanism fail, which often happens with bedroom sets that have plastic components in that mechanism; or did the screws that secure the latch into the door come loose, allowing the latch and/or the screws to prevent the door from opening...also not an uncommon event.

I completely agree with @Ashish Acharya's points about the cost-effectiveness of a HELOC and the potential credit implications if it’s secured by your primary residence.

Your best security is your neighbors , they are right there and see whats going on at your property .   

Do you have any suggestions on how we can secure long-term financing under these circumstances?

Quote from @Jordan Kaylor: I'm new to real estate investing and have secured a HELOC on my existing home.  

Texas tends to favor landlords in these cases, but follow the legal process exactly—any misstep could delay things.As for protecting against retaliation or property damage, installing security cameras (if you haven’t already) to monitor common areas might be worth it.

I rarely see ledger boards secured and flashed properly as one example.