At the end of the day work hard and burn the ships behind you so you can't turn back will win the day.  

Would they simply apply the roughly 1/3 Debt to Income ratio regardless of the heloc facility one has in reserve? 

Simply create a "common expense" category, or several.

I don't think I've used a traditional bank lender (with the exception of credit lines) for over 10 years, because it feels great creating a win-win for you and your investors, and getting to skip the mountain of paperwork banks require.Good luck!

When I see a for sale by owner or I see a building that interests me, I simply knock on the door and ask to speak with the owner. 

Will my new lease be simply a "company name change exercise?"

I'd simply reply that the duct work isn't covered because you didn't touch it.

You're simply co-borrowing money on a property you don't own but want to buy from your co-borrower later? 

How To Win Friends and Influence People, Dale Carnegie - the BEST book on getting along and influencing others.

Simply put, you're way too big of an expense when they sell (even for reduced commission, as over many deals it adds up) and they would also get the added savings when they purchase either in the form of price discounts or getting the commission.