I was hoping there was a good rule out there, amount of equity amount of REI, amount of "x" before you make a move.

When you do provide it (e.g. applying for loan in your own name), make sure they are a reputable company.Unfortunately identity theft is a real thing and can really screw up your life for year and years once it happens.Oren

Are there rules around taking out a home equity loan on a rental property that would prevent this?

It has nothing to do with fault but California it has its own rules so might not be anything like that.

They are under a lot of pressure to enforce the rules.

@Patrick Barker - I'm not at all familiar with the bank rules/laws governing this so take this all as my opinion! 

Does the 70% rule hold relatively true in higher priced areas such as CA. 

I know the rule is, if you get an FHA loan, you have to live in the building.

I agree Jason, I use the 30 day rule and then lower the price unless you have a seasonal market where you are. 

I believe the 90 day rule starts from the date the deed was recorded (Jan 2018).