@Ken Sanders Here in central PA you could use S&T Bank and Members First Federal Credit Union can offer both Lines of Credits based on equity you have on an investment property (80% LTV) as well as business lines of credit. 

I want to avoid falling into a mindset of thinking we can't afford to invest because of the needs in front of us.

Do you see them as a viable option early on, or is it better to avoid them altogether?  

.: Generally….Avoid HOA foreclosures.

You can hear real-world examples of how others have built their investment portfolio and (hopefully) learn to avoid their mistakes.4.

One of the side benefits is that I can avoid the whole draw/inspection process (not overall inspection, just the ones tied to the draws) and don't have to worry about draw fees.

Personally, I always try to avoid general statements that could be misleading.

If there are items of value left behind, or even personal items of sentimental value, I will follow the abandonment rules to a "T" to avoid any legal issues.

This way the broker can search hundreds of lenders (Including Easy Street Capital) instead of just hoping that one lender can get you a good deal.A direct lender can work very well for Conventional loans, but if you were hoping to get a good deal I would look elsewhere Or you could search for hundreds of lenders here on BP or online yourself and avoid paying broker fees..

A tiny % of people can avoid the hard work by getting creative or lucky, but most have to work hard, take action, and be patient.