I like this method because the closing costs on a HELOC are zero or close to zero, so your not adding much debt by way of closing costs. 

Be advised if the lease option individual stops paying you are still responsible for the debt. 

Does anyone on here know if it is legal for me to put a lock on the thermastat in my duplex?  

I have a tenant that I rent a basement room to, my credit score has improved at least 100 points in the last year and I have paid off almost all of my bad debt.

Hey all, I am considering a 4000 sqft 2 family house with a full basement that I am looking to turn into an additional legal unit.

If it was legally yes you are obligated and they may do a due on sale on you and make you pay it off. 

Are sandwich lease options legal in Virginia?

They have gotten rid of all their debt and can't file again for many years.

Depends on the lender (because where the property they lent money on once was a vacant lot, it's now a thriving restaurant) and the zoning board (to determine if the property can actually be legally subdivided).I could be wrong, but that's what I'm getting from what you wroteStephanie

Where will you get the down payments, make debt service, manage, etc?