The property next door to this one I own 50/50 and went out to cut down a tree that our tenants said would fall on the neighbors home.

0X or more the Investors are hoping.

It sounds like you are just having trouble pulling the trigger. 

I always check probate courts for estate filings and possible Conservatorship of a senior.Another possibility is that ownership has already changed and title held by entity, just waiting to take next step to rehab, demo, assemble other ownership, etc.

Why did you choose to leave, and where did you go next?   

I'd check local STR FB groups and see if you have a local Real Estate Club.You can offer your services there, maybe for free in exchange for the experience.

I am currently in the Carolina Beach/Wilmington area.

I was considering taking out a $240K HELOC with a 10-year draw period and pulling $160K from it to build the next rental property.

Proof of claim reserves any rights you have; if you have a lease with the tenant your “claim’ is the amount of future rent owed on the lease.  

I found this deal while looking at the deal next door which was a larger piece of land.