Thanks for the recommendation Jeffrey! 

They were seeking secondary homes for their family that could be rented to help offset costs and didn't require an immediate or transferrable permit.

A prudent investor doesn't seek quick riches through shortcuts.

I have purchased the following books:ABCs of Buying Rental Property The ABCs of Property Management The ABCs of Real Estate Investing The Advanced Guide to Real Estate InvestingThe Book on Investing in Real Estate with No (and Low) Money DownWhat order do you recommend reading them in?

HELOCs are not available because they are residential loans guaranteed by individuals and what you seek is a type of commercial loan or credit line which are available to seasoned companies with proven financial track record.

Definitely a very expensive lesson learned, need recommendations for a reasonable priced, good contractor please?

Quote from @Jerry Maliszewski: According to Fannie Mae, 10 million people will be moving to the midwest by 2030 all seeking smaller downtowns. 

Understanding the IRS disaster relief provisions is crucial for residents seeking financial recovery.Under IRS guidelines, individuals and businesses in areas designated as federally declared disaster zones by FEMA may qualify for special tax relief.

A prudent investor doesn't seek quick riches through shortcuts.

Any recommended RE agents in that market?