. - What factors of a mortgage can vary from borrower to borrower?

Once the values get to a point where you would want to borrow against the policy, these loans are at either 2% or 0% depending on how long you've owned the policy.  

@Mike HwangThe following general guidelines and things to think about will help you look into joint ventures and get hard money loans for investments in commercial real estate:Securing Hard Money Loans: Flexible Approval Criteria, Local Real Estate Forums, Real Estate Associations, Lender Relationships, Online Research, and Consultation with Experienced Real Estate Agents and BrokersInvestigating Joint Venture Financing: Make Connections and Develop Networks, Acquire knowledge, recognise complementary skills, determine project suitability, draft joint venture agreements, find dependable partners, seek professional advice, and make use of regional real estate groups and networks.Recall that thorough research is essential when evaluating joint venture partners as well as hard money lenders.

It depends on what you are looking for, personal financials, and location. 

@Kay Hart, I think your approach depends on how much of an increase.

Just depends on how much time you want to put into it. 

I know it depends on the size of the home, but run the numbers and budget for 15-20K. 

It all depends on the deal and what you are looking for.

It depends who you know and if you have a proven record of monitoring the loans you lend out. 

Or it might not make sense - depends on how much you can walk away with and use towards your other goals.