Start with one unit or a reliable tenant, then gradually expand.

, we are not able to do keycode locks there. 

They replaced the locks, shoveled the driveway, took photos, and are listing it today.

I've heard of people being able to lock their HELOC rates after opening the line of equity. 

No additional locks shall be placed on doors or windows.

I approached them and told them our plan to convert the space (assumptive sale style) and offered to renew their lease and lock them in for the same rate for 18 months at the same time.

Refinancing next year would likely allow you to lock in a potentially lower rate than the 8% you're currently at, especially if the market conditions continue to favor lower rates.Avoid Duplicate Fees: You're right in thinking about avoiding duplicate fees for the refinance and HELOC.

Seems very locked-down to Zillow listings in their current as-is layout.

Generally, using comps that are over 12+ months sold are not reliable to be an accurate reflection of current market values.

I agree with Nathan for his situation of owning 12 properties, but for someone just getting started I wouldn't suggest getting locked in with the one-time fee.