Recently, I've encountered startups and companies offering quick EMD financing at high interest rates (around 3-5% per month).

I live in 78749 right now and the rents here are crazy - I have a great IR on my house right now and would consider renting it out if I can find a quality tenant. 

The fees will be high though. 

I'd like to sell one of my rentals and put the proceeds into stocks instead, but if the tax hit is too high, I'd do a 1031 exchange.  

It is not an issue if you are adding more square feet for your personal preference, but I would not expect an ARV that is as high. 

Most plumbers don't know a lot about sewage ejector pumps because there is not a high percent of them around compared to the millions of properties.

Price points were too high, numbers didn't make sense from an investment side (running a negative just to hope and pray the appreciation will be there).

I have a real estate portfolio with good amount of equity (most of the portfolio is free and clear), however my personal DTI ratio is too high and that's stopping me from tapping into it to settle some debts and buy more properties.

They also do a harder dig on your financials as they're not trying to lend the high leverage to just anyone. 

Sometimes, a more expensive home with lower property taxes can be more affordable than a cheaper home in a high-tax area.