Sounds like I need to stop using my local credit union as a one-stop shop. 

We also like the east side of the Hudson more because of train access and overall it seems a little nicer and closer to towns.

I was attracted to this lender because there are NO hard inquiries on your personal credit report and they do not list this loan on your credit unless you default and stop paying on the loan. 

You decide you want to find a multi-unit property in a certain city, say Tulare, and then you find an investor-friendly agent in Tulare with access to the Tulare MLS so they can send you listings that fit your criteria.Find the area first.  

You can try the MLS as well if you have access or have an agent.  

Do you have an access to MLS?

You might have a hard time accessing the equity with a HELOC anyway.

Of particular interest to me is local, investor friendly real state agents with access to the pre-foreclosure, short-sales and the likes listing off the MLS since this would be my main focus for the time being.I'll provide more details about the investment strategy when contacted.I'd be glad to hear from anyone interested.I wish you all a great day.Happy investing!

At the end of the day I wouldn’t let not being able to llc a property stop you from buying it.

Donna Bauer has a great cours that is peanuts compared to what the expensive gurus charge and it will explain notes very well, as does Papersource University Online, good solid low cost education.Buying a performing note at the lowest price you can get it for is a good start on FCI, as they can service it for you and there is little work other than get paid back, unless they stop paying.