When you can access the opportunities first, you can qualify the lead first, analyse and find the best deals first, reach out and build rapport first , offer your solution first (rather than having your offer thrown on a pile of others the individual has already been given) and so on.

BTW, it is illegal for a seller to receive any proceeds from the short sale,  however,  they may be qualified for relocation $$$ or other reimbursable expenses.   

I always loved having an HELOC on my primary residence as the answer for me. 

If you have not flipped a home, do not have a rental property, and do not own a primary residence, you may have a hard time getting into lending.

The exception is: When the 2 members are married spouses who reside in a community property state. 

IMO this is much too little additional return to put your personal residence at risk.  

Hi Jake, the fact that you're a US citizen/resident has absolutely no bearing on the process.

This extra road frontage now also qualifies my property to be able to be legally converted into a triplex from a duplex.

The first warning I always do written (via email), second warning is an official letter on their door saying they're violating their lease to allow other residents the right of enjoyment (if you put this in your lease).

Unfortunately it's a necessary evil to weed out the residents that are not ideal.