My main goal is to separate the finances and project a more professional image.

Thanks Aaron, yes, this is a decision for us to make and decide what our main goal is.

Also just started direct mail in Maine so please connect if you buy whole sale deals.Best,Josh

I'll underline the main differences, but it's on you to dig dipper and read up on both.  

We purchased a lot of properties in independence-we go off of the school districts mainly.

Mainly, in my last experience, I found not going through a realtor much more efficient, since I was the realtor.

The main one is the AMI.

Keep in mind that property taxes are high in Grand Rapids (close to 2%), landlords typically pay for water, and repairs and maintenance costs are higher in Grand Rapids than other areas because you're dealing mainly with properties built in the early 1900s that require a lot of upkeep. 

However, my main question (which may sound dumb) is, “in this scenario would it be better to Refinance the house, or go through with HELOC?”

I wanted to hear some stories of challenges people have faced who have already invested out of state or out of the country before so I can know what to avoid, what to look out for, and where to focus my energy.I am investing in mainly single-family homes and small multifamily (2plex-6plex) homes with long term tenants.Cheers!