I screen like I would a regular tenant but with a higher credit score requirement.I've had to take a couple back and wished I'd just rented them out. 

If the value came in low enough you can still work on lowering the taxes, but otherwise getting credit for an extra bedroom per unit is a good thing. 

Have a portfolio lender in mind, few PMLs, and potential line of credit.

I discovered rent to own at this time and after a day or so, I found a renter that would rent my house for $1,500 a month that passed all checks (credit, background, income etc...).

However, he has never paid principal, interest, or taken a deduction on the property (he lent his name and credit so I could purchase the property when I was younger).

There is no risk in establishing the HELOC (assuming you one can be responsible with such a thing) - its a line of credit, not a loan.

Most credit card members can borrow against their card up to $25K.

If you have your tenants paying heat you should mandate it be with your vendor of choice so the same tank can remain in place.The fuel provider will also very likely run a credit check on the tenant so be prepared for that. 

I am connected with several lenders that do small loan amounts nationwide, as well as large lines of credit, assuming that the home is an investment and not personal use.

Also, it should be easy to find hard money, and maybe even a credit union that will lend if they could be in first position.That's all I can think of right now.