In theory I could use the HELOC that is available to me (limited) to pay off existing mortgages on 2 of my other properties, but that seems a bit like churning assets - the true intention of accessing credit is to buy other properties outright with cash.

Then, even if you get the loan you are limited by debt to income ratio ? 

If you are looking to buy 50K houses, that doesn't exist in your state, but those investments tend to be risky and best suited for experienced, local operators.Hi Brian,I wouldn't necessarily agree that due to a population decline in a state or city that's it's not a good investment.The micro economics paint a different picture than what can be found out online via research.There are areas in my market that are booming with sales and rentals flying of the shelf even tho the broad market is showing a decline in population.I think that majority of the markets in the Midwest are showing a decline on population anyway lolSomething that I have preached to investors for years now is that finding the right team to work with is more important than focusing on just the online stats/demographics.You are correct tho regarding turnkey outfits.Most are very shady and do oversell properties.Something that isn't a deal breaker as long as the property management is solid.In most cases it isn't so that kills the deal completely.Just my opinion.Thanks 

Right now All of my real estate investments focus on investing in turn key properties and becoming a limited partner in syndications.

Sometimes having it on the shelf at the ready is it's best use.

Is there maybe another workaround to this (hiring an agent in some sort of limited capacity?

I've had limited success with this, and you may get someone to give you more specifics on timelines. 

I did limited research where to move, but I absolutely knew we didn’t want to live in IL and pay ridiculous property taxes ($850 p/mth, 2,200 sq ft home).

I sometimes drive in excess of the speed limit.

Get those CCs paid down, and you'll also potentially earn higher credit limits on those existing cards (a good rule of thumb is to keep your utilization lower than 30% of your limit which, if done consistently, can boost your credit score).