So I'm looking for ways to take advantage of my current position and move towards growing the portfolio into one that produces some income for myself and family, AND allows me to move towards bigger & bigger properties.Thanks in advance for any insight!

Of course you can talk tough and try to bluff them but I suspect you are in a weak legal position. 

I’m looking for a service or website that scrapes all the relevant data (date of deed, original loan amount, address etc) from forclosure notices when they’re published in my area, and then turns that data into a 1 page “cheat sheet” for each property.

If only they'd direct their creative energies into something positive...

I'm looking to acquire one or two multi units and am interested mainly in positive cashflow.  

In addition, the loan does not have to be repaid until the borrower no longer occupies the property.home equity line of creditA mortgage loan, usually in second position, that allows the borrower to obtain cash drawn against the equity of his home, up to a predetermined amount.home inspectionA thorough inspection by a professional that evaluates the structural and mechanical condition of a property.

If a unit rents for $900 + electric, they will notice when yours rents for $900 + electric, water, sewer, and trash. 

Noticed that you did not have management expense - will you be renting out/managing the properties on your own in the future? 

I'm paying 8% for hm right now, and I'm not sure  a non-conventional lender would go into a backup position for this type of loan for much less.

My experience has very positive for the most part.