There aren't very many large parcels left where you can do a development. 

Main things we are looking for are:1) Are residents keeping property in decent shape2) Any leaks or issues that could lead to substantial damage3) Any capital repair concerns (mostly foundation) that we might need to address4) Long term guests who aren't on the lease, pets who they're not supposed to have, etc.We also change the furnace filters (because we don't trust them to do that), clean off the AC units and are considering cleaning the gutters for an added fee if tenants request it. 

The rest have a combined worth of about 1.5 million but aren’t owned free and clear yet.All Properties are collecting rent and generate about $16,500 (profit) a month in Cash flow after mortgages/expenses.

And the cruise ships aren't even running right now. 

Now new real estate investors or those who want to invest think they need to "build a team" in order to buy their first SFH.If you aren't handy, don't understand construction/PM, lending, insurance, and real estate law then that needs to be your focus. 

This is a small town and there really aren't any good comps in the historic district.

This service is typically used for bandit sign numbers because they aren't traceable.

Even areas that we deemed safe aren't anymore.

The short answer is yes utilize a heloq if the numbers work.I would get the heloq to have available but use your cash for now do you aren't paying 8% or so for the heloq money.Then if you need cash you can tap the heloq only then.This will save you a lot on interest.You can't deduct the interest on upgrades to your primary residence until it becomes an investment property.

They aren’t going to pay rent for 9 months after their house is finished.