You can't try to suppress a disruptive technology but eventually it will become too big.  

@Chrissie E Lewis so  not sure if this would help or not but there are credit unions that seem to have an appetite for HELOCs.

Here are reasons some people do not take loans:1) Poor/mediocre credit2) Unable to take more (due to outstanding lines of credit). 3) Low appetite for risk and subsequent backup plans.4) Foreclosure, short sale, and mom & pop deals that require cash (for ease of transaction).5) Access to plenty of capital (this is a problem most wish they had).Regardless of your case, any of the above is a viable reason not to take financing.

We received 2 cost estimates for the rehab along with an initial code analysis to look at the possible elevator and fire suppression requirements.

I see it, but it’s because the inventory has been suppressed on purpose by big players . . . not foreclosing on properties.”

Depending on your risk appetite, that may or may not be a good thing.

I did not explore Section 8 since it's another animal and don't think I have the appetite for that type of investment.  

There is no fire suppression system. 18,000 sq ft.

Interest rates are begging artificially suppressed by monetary policy.

Some Realtors will pay for your leads, but their appetite will eventually be in direct proportion to the quality of the leads.