Tenant is now saying that she’s in a hotel because the issue is getting worse and that the apt has had roaches for “years”. 

Once you get settled, I would love to join the meeting as well (whether virtual or in-person).

Hosts can get involved by either donating a portion of rents from their payouts or they can offer housing at a discounted rate.

It's the safest way to start and it's a guaranteed profit when you get the right deal!

Plus the added requirements around getting drawings and general contractor for even adding a tiny closet.

In California there is $800 franchise tax per LLC per year, which discourages a lot of RE investors from getting an LLC.

You magically get the seller to cover every single closing cost (A $12k gift, or a trick to get you to buy their problem.).

Getting the proper endorsements is a real joy.  

I've got about $525K in equity in the property, but lenders have told me that I cannot get a HELOC to access that equity for additional purchases because the duplex was financed as an investment - they have said TX law dictates that HELOC can only be used on primary residences.

Here’s my recommendation to get it under control: For a quick fix, start by sealing up any gaps using acoustic caulk around outlets, baseboards, or other small openings.