Let's say that commercial properties take 2-3x times as long to find, the number of units you're dealing with is much higher so you're much more efficient and able to scale much quicker.Additionally, generally on residential you make your money on the purchase.

By my calculations, within a year, we will be able to use cash again for our next few purchases, be in a much better debt to income ratio, and still have the availability to use a significant amount of the HELOC if necessary (all my numbers have us paying off the HELOC within 18-24 months using the same amount of money I'm paying monthly right now, just more efficiently).I know it might seem contrary. 

These homes are in need of serious repairs, but if you are very handy / efficient and can keep costs down, there is significant equity to be had.

So, if that's the case, if we buy a property where we can "add value" by renovations, adding creating income streams and improved operational efficiencies w/better property mgt that reduce costs we are going to be able to raise the NOI (increasing income - decreasing expenses).  

As opposed to most REITs, these sponsors would look at value add / special situation / turnaround deals in the B/C class category (think 1980s apts that need a facelift, remodel, bring in new property management to improve efficiencies / NOI) where they could create massive value in a short period of time, then look to refinance and eventually sell the asset.  

By manage I mean efficiently schedule and follow through with maintenance items.And by maintenance I am referring to things that need to be done annually or semi-annually, like changing furnace filters, cleaning gutters, checking smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, spraying for pests, leaky faucets, hot water tank maintenance etc. 

It's very efficient and even gives you opinion based on background to accept or decline.

I could do it, but could also manage my time more efficiently if I slept at night knowing there's nothing to worry about!

@Andy Cason, I am not "fee-based" because I won't charge you anything, but if you have questions on buy and hold I have quite a bit of experience in that strategy and how to  utilize it efficiently in different situations.

Yes, always check first that the fuel source is not disconnected (or too low if oil or propane).Another odd one can happen on the high efficiency direct vented units; with those, on a windy day, things like loose paper or plastic bags can blow within close enough proximity to the air intake pipe, and then get sucked into the intake pipe and blocking the opening.