What you CAN do is partner up with someone experienced and split the deal.

The real estate community is full of experienced investors happy to share their knowledge.

Tenants will push and try to get everything they can from their landlord.Seems you've done everything possible to be reasonable, yet the tenant is not satisified and wants more.As already stated, you are too much of a pushover, so the tenant is seeing how much farther they can push you.Highly advise you to find an experienced residential landlord-tenant attorney ASAP.

Like calling @Stuart Udis out.. who I know for a fact is a very experienced developer and just happens to be an attorney.. 

Expert GuidanceThe most obvious advantage of joining a coaching program is access to experienced mentors.

I've just heard that from many people over the years.In general, SC is experiencing an economic renaissance, so it is a good time to invest here. 

With your maintenance and construction background, you'll definitely have a leg up in creating value, whether you go with a smaller home or a multi-unit property.If you're exploring seller financing and deal structuring, connecting with experienced investors here in Chicago will be a game changer.

If I used the HELOC, the investment needs to generate >9%.I recognize there are many variables not listed here but would love to hear from more experienced investors on more generally how you think about using cash vs. home equity to grow your portfolio in the current environment. 

Even being more experienced, I would have rather wholesaled or wholetailed this property knowing what I do now. 

I am hoping to be an asset to experienced investors, with the intention of learning as much as I can, so that I can start building a portfolio of my own.