But I know sometimes I may need to sell to get a larger lump sum up front to help with lack of any other income currently. 

That is a recipe for disaster, and if it gets around there are hundreds of people that will provide him compelling ways to lose it all in "good" investments.Alas, financial self-education is something that is hard-won and severely lacking in this country.  

Refinancing to agency may make this a great dealGood LuckGino

If you want to try lending and do some buy&hold, then 1) find an experienced HML/Agency and lend through them a few times (they should be able to get you a decent return even after fees) & 2) leverage an experienced syndicator and join their deal as a passive investor - you can always learn about syndication through this "back" door if you will, while making some passive income and enjoying tax benefits of buy&hold investing.If you'd like to speak about it further feel free to PM me.Good luck!

Quote from @Gerald Jarreau: Is there a government agency that will need to certify the rental as mold free?

Connect with an insurance agency or something?   

Hey BP peeps,When seeking a HELOC, does anyone know of a financial institution that works well with clients that lack W2 income?

I think I am more frustrated with the lack of communication from their end.

Well, this is a wonderful thread.All I can really contribute with enough experience to be absolutely sure of what I say: if you live on the coasts and your spreadsheet tells you your best passive returns over the long haul are going to be in the Rust Belt in cheap rentals, then your spreadsheet needs to be looked at by someone with a lot more experience in cheap Rust Belt rentals than you have.My own take on the musings here of why everyone wants to quit their job these day and its possible connection to young people and their participation trophies, their possible work-ethic failings, moral turpitude, contemptible world outlook, lack of grit, et hoc genus omne...yeah, I know I don't know squat about all that.

One thing it's lacking is with its API integrations with 3rd parties.