In my opinion a HELOC isn't always the best route to go for a long term strategy.

Going the FSBO or Flat Fee MLS Listing services rout is definitely for experienced investors.

If we decide to go the LLC route we'll probably consult with an attorney versus online just to ensure we understand the requirements/ our optionsLooks like there are several blogs on LLC versus Insurnace as well that I'm going to go read.  

The courses themselves might be worth your time for the knowledge and you could work towards a real estate license if your interested in going that route.

Triplog app tracks your mileage for tax purposes AND maps the route you took.

Town homes don't have to abide by the same rules as condos as far as owner occupant requirements, so if you can go that route, you're better off. 

If you go this route, don't show your house to anyone without vetting them and without having someone else present.

Use the high bid for negotiations and the middle bid to do the work if you go that route.

The way I see it, the cash-to-refinance route would give us a bit of a competitive advantage when buying, since paying by cash would likely appeal more to sellers.  

If they capital you get selling it allows you to purchase more and get more cash flow than they one you have now then that would be the best route.