I would suggest giving it up and just hire an agent when you are ready to transact in the future.

How exactly does transactional lenders work?

Cheeto Jesus, "just kiddin" can safely bully them a bit over the next few years as he can with most other countries, too, due to this similar dilemma with nearly all trading partners. 

There are plenty of entry roles from cold calling, scrubbing data and find deals for investors, leasing assistant, work on construction sites, office admin, project coordinator, Title assistant, RE photographer, transaction coordinator.. on and on. 

If you have a willing seller with a willing buyer doing creative financing, it's the  simplest of transactions.

This doesn't account for transaction costs and reduction in leverage as you pay down the mortgage which accounts for closer to 2-3% less, so you 12-18%. 

Yes itwill cost you 4 to 7% commission, but you will have more buyers,don’t have to worry about the legal transaction process, and youwill never question if you got top dollar after you sale.I.

Its a safe place to park money.

It is also important to consider the transactional fees associated with originating the HELOC, whether an appraisal is required etc.

Spending on expensive upgrades is not the answer to improve your tenant base in this type of area.Keep the homes habitable, clean, and safe.