Let's say I sell the properties in couple years. 

And since you're new, the Ohio boys are lurking behind every corner trying to sell something.

Usually you pay a fee for the option and then record it against the property so that the owner can't sell over your interest in the property.

Given your situation, tapping into the equity through a HELOC could be a smart move, allowing you to access capital for new investments without selling off your current assets.That being said, considering your stable cash flow and existing portfolio, a DSCR loan could also be valuable.

The number usually varies from 10-20% depending on credit score, property analysis, etc.Some lenders will work with any level of investor experience, credit scores as low as 660 and can close in as little as 10 days (there are loan options for 640-660 credit scores- they require 20% down).Another good thing is interest only and 6-24 month loan terms- you can refinance by selling or refinancing to a long term DSCR rental property loan at any time once you complete the rehab.Once the property is ready you can sell it or if you want to keep the property as a long term investment, you can underwrite the loan based on your income /debt to income (DTI) ratios or you can go the DSCR route where the loan is underwritten based on the actual or market rents from the appraisal.DSCR loans won't use your income to underwrite the loan.DSCR loans are based off of down payment, credit score and either actual or market rents so it helps to supercharge an investor's real estate goals and net worth.Here's a bit more in detail about how rates are calculated for DSCR loans:1.

My recommendation is to focus on Stick-Built, Brick & Mortar property versus Mobile/Manufactured, main reasons; 1) Investor appetite, 2) Appreciation factor, 3) Re-sell value, 4) Future buyer/investor appetite.

They're only selling well below the ARV if there is a giant mess to clean up.

I don't have anything to sell you--I'm definitely down to talk through how you could possibly figure this out without 20% out of pocket. 

Selling is good option.

They can be used against some future passive income or against the capital against when you sell one of the properties.