We also used PenFed, and they offer a fast HELOC…not sure how long they are now, but the process was smooth.  

My wife and I are new investors transitioning into Commercial Real Estate, with a focus on multifamily properties.

Also find a good lender that is well versed in STR/MTR loans to make sure you qualify for financing (if you need it) and that they can execute the loan smoothly

Best thing to do is buy it as a primary or second home and then transition out into a rental. 

Once I've completed these initial projects and built up some capital, my long-term goal is to transition into buy-and-hold investments in potentially more affordable markets to maximize cash flow and scale up.Right now, I'm particularly interested in investing locally here in the Seattle metro area.

I'm a retired engineer and have been successfully using income from these houses to support my retirement without dipping into retirement savings.I'm transitioning my business from rentals to a franchise and would consider selling one of my houses (5 br/4 ba - the other houses my son while he's still attending).

You'll find that your best talent is already working at another lender or is planning to transition to the broker side. 

However, I don’t yet have the funds for a down payment on another house, and I’m trying to figure out the best option for where to live while I rent the apartment.Do you have any recommendations for managing this transition or tips on finding a temporary place to stay?

Transitioning from construction equipment rentals into full-time real estate must have been a big step.I can relate to your passion for finding deals and helping others reach their goals—it’s such a rewarding aspect of being in this industry.

It has been a rewarding journey and the transition from salaried employee to 100% commission was scary but has been rewarding and I have been able to surpass my highest W@ in coaching with my new role.