This can often be cost-prohibitive. 

That way the lender has an idea what it is you are doing and cost.

If I were to purchase an Airstream to use as lodging while I travel across the US to my rental properties, make repairs, and perform lease turnovers, would I be able to not only deduct fuel and campground costs but also depreciate the purchase price across 5 years? 

Consider house hacking with an FHA loan for lower upfront costs or explore creative financing options if capital is limited.

2) Set up a HELOC to cover the cost?

Ofcourse my mistakes would cost me if done all my self as well.So i am thinking that by going through paid consulting, it saves me from mistakes and time.

Can try to reposition to Class B, but neighborhood may impede these efforts.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, but 15-20% should be used to also cover tenant nonpayment, eviction costs & damages.Tenant Pool: majority will have FICO scores of 560-620 (approaching 22% probability of default), many blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 2 years.

funding land flippers as a capital partner is my latest thing.. since finding lenders for land is very difficult. continue to fund small developers soft costs for % ownership.and continue to be capital partner for flippers and BRRR folks

If you do find that the costs to maintain the investment property are too substantial and you'd rather sell down the road, it would qualify for a 1031 exchange since the property was held for investment use.

The two deals with friends both ended poorly with friendships ruined and tens of thousands in legal fees and court costs.