The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon. 

But they are getting the advice from people who are either (1) not qualified or experienced enough to rely on their advice (2) biased to some degree, perhaps unintentionally, by their background, business interests, training, etc, or (3) providing advice in a general sense without a thorough understanding of the questioners personal situation or ALL the relevant facts. 

The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon.

I rely mostly on referrals from my agent and my contractor.

You can't just rely on PM, you need someone you know who can check up on things or drive by when needed.

Typically HELOC lenders don't escrow since they're often set up to be in 2nd and rely on the first to check tax/ins more regularly.

You will have a difficult time operating the properties and will most likely fail to sell the property for anywhere close to the appraisal that was relied upon for the refinance.

The real estate community here is active and full of knowledge that can translate across markets.

This is where the investment either does or does not translate into value.

The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon.