I have 2 rental properties.The First is in Crestview FL with a long-term military tenant.Cashflows ~ $800 monthly.Mortgage is $180k.

You can get a credit union to do a drive by appraisal for a HELOC and the brokers can tell you prior what it will appraise for and you probably dont have to pay for the appraisal. 

. - For greater than 5+ multi family properties the 'best' initial source for financing could be a local credit union or bank.

Having done some research, I’m thinking in the areas of Bergen County or Union County.

A local credit union or bank like Pima Federal Credit Union will probably give you the best rates.

For me the military has taught me everyone is replaceable.

While I’m not a veteran I did listen to Brandon Turners A Better Life Tribe podcast tonight the episode from this week #43January 1 and the guest was Dave Pere a retired military veteran who hosts his own podcast and a website called From Military to Millionaire.

I'm Gil Rodriguez, and alongside my wife, Ashley, I wanted to share a bit about my current ventures and aspirations in the real estate world.While my focus has been on ventures like the Rent-to-Retirement pipeline and military duties alongside my wife.

Talk to the person who sold you the deal initially to see if they have a recommendation for a lender (local bank, credit union, DSCR guy, or Hard Money).   

There is a lot more grey area in commercial and each bank, credit union, agency, and private lender have different credit criteria.