My question: Is using a HELOC the best option, or should I consider refinancing my home for a 25-year term and putting all my rental income toward it?

But SFH are already seeing renewals at 2%-4% and release rates up at least 5% YoY...that number is even higher on some luxury ($3k+/m rent) homes as those are harder to find.The rest is entirely speculative.

I have owned 3 homes in the past that I lived in.

Quote from @Trent Reeve: i would think they would have more amenities than a non-condo.I think the reference was how do you stand out from one condo to another when they are all identical, vs how do you compete with single family homes.

If you're insuring a home to replacement cost, insurance companies don't care about appraisals or what the home is worth.  

Quote from @Geritt Shipley: Hello, I've got a single family home in Portland, OR and the tenants began hearing rats in the attic about a month ago.

My goal was to ONLY buy "Sticks and Bricks" homes. 

I have 3 homes managed by a property manager.

Is this a single-family home or a multi-unit? 

Quote from @William Weston: That would be an option but I have not seen multiple family homes that are big enough for a family of 5.