Great to see folks with an interest in "rough areas" - most people don't even think twice about them. 

I've heard of folks using the equity in their rental properties to purchase additional properties and I'm trying to learn if this would make sense for me.

Folks will generally have a fantastic rental strategy but they don't fit the lense of regular guidelines.

I feel like we eliminate folks with batch tours that can't make the timing work that day. 

I really do appreciate all of the comments folks have made and it’s clear that they have systems in place and I hope that knowledge will aid me in my endeavor. 

If you are going to be active, and have high conviction in a project with a clearly defined entry/exit strategy then using a HELOC is one of the better sources of capital.But, I continue to have my stance that, on average, folks who use a HELOC to fund the down payment for long-term investments will eventually find themselves in a situation where their portfolios drain their personal financial situations, rather than fueling them. 

The problem is that most wholesalers or off-market acquisition folks are being "trained" to follow a script, not solve a problem.

IE I suggest folks study now to filter / buy top leads for your deal type. 

Fewer banks willing to give credit for imputed equity even if generated through heavy lift entitlements. 

sounds like you folks need to get a Reciever in there pronto before all the funds if there are any go poof.