Now that I'm divorced, I've found myself without as much disposable earnings and very little in savings.I'm considering taking out a HELOC to pay for some upgrades to the property so that I can "house-hack".

Usually there will be a per hour fee and then possibly a tonnage rate since municipal solid waste is billed for disposal by the ton.  

This person, who may be court appointed if there are no heirs, is the person who can make decisions regarding the disposal of a property.

You just have it ready at your disposal when the time comes.

Also looking into buying a disposable prepaid phone that WILL work.

Dispose of all foodsources, for long term storage.

I believe that pest control - whenever possible - should be the responsibility of the tenant as the tenant is the one who is disposing of food/trash, maintaining the cleanliness of the property, and securing doors and windows to prevent intrusion. 

Only times they ever contacted me was for issue like - garbage disposal leaking, dish washer seal broken.. etc. 

Ok, in the interest in offering the best advice to folks who wouldnt be asking questions if they had a professional at their disposal, please put a leash on your ego and explain the process your guys used in detail.

Any disposable money you have would be better spent buying a box of business cards and spending time at open houses, business grand openings, auction days, unlawful detainer courtroom hearings.