I was born and raised in NYC but have recently moved to Newark NJ a year ago.

You can have credit cards, residence, phone lines, etc. for years with no lates or defaults but still no credit score.Unfortunately @Mike Lambert is correct that while there are Canadian banks that do provide loans for US investing, they come with significant limitations.

For improvements to raise the appraisal put on a new roof, replace old HVAC and/or water heater and fix any foundation issues.

Hi Scott, I was born and raised in Memphis so in my comfort zone.

With cash out refi, you raise your exposure - higher costs when you have a vacancy.

If she didn't quality for Section 8  and I thought she could afford more, then I'd give the required notice and raise the rent.  

@Oleg Shalumov I guess that sounds like a safe bet to look at the current rents and if we can raise it eventually then great.Thanks for your help!

The cards are stacked against the owner in every way it seems .

But a refi would be much more hassle than putting it on a credit card or financing with the contractors.

Based on this new rental what is a reasonable amount to raise the rent without scaring off the current trouble free tenants?