So I'm looking for ways to take advantage of my current position and move towards growing the portfolio into one that produces some income for myself and family, AND allows me to move towards bigger & bigger properties.Thanks in advance for any insight!

WI is a hot plate of rental properties right now much opportunity I hope you take massive action 

I would ask questions to find out how you can undo any action they take to get a certificate of occupancy later and not incur a bunch of fines.

Of course you can talk tough and try to bluff them but I suspect you are in a weak legal position. 

If only they'd direct their creative energies into something positive...

The next action step for me is to find sales/comparable data for my market for the purpose of getting a better sense of what is selling and for what price retail houses are going for, along with comparables.  

I'm looking to acquire one or two multi units and am interested mainly in positive cashflow.  

In addition, the loan does not have to be repaid until the borrower no longer occupies the property.home equity line of creditA mortgage loan, usually in second position, that allows the borrower to obtain cash drawn against the equity of his home, up to a predetermined amount.home inspectionA thorough inspection by a professional that evaluates the structural and mechanical condition of a property.

I'm paying 8% for hm right now, and I'm not sure  a non-conventional lender would go into a backup position for this type of loan for much less.

My experience has very positive for the most part.