The only easy fix that I could think from this is that the gas line could be partially closed, causing low flame in the oven and not enough to start on the stove.

Also, you should be able to lock in a historically low fixed rate now by consolidating.HELOC is a creative solution, but not one I would advise.

Only when needing the lower rate to qualify for the loan. 4.65% is very low, consider we did investing for decades with 10% money.Homes usually are held for 7 to 10 years, so your savings on interest is limited and it's tax deductible to boot. 1-your tax rate times the interest rate is your real after tax cost. 

If so it will be more $Anyway to give you a ball park: it should be 4.5K each (parts and labor) on the low side and 10K each (parts and labor) on the upper side.  

Any of these strategies will work, since you bought low.

I would buy a partial or entire low balance note; or JV with an investor who buys NPLs and does a workout etc.

With my low-income being a student I wouldn't get approved for a decent mortgage from a bank, so my question is:Who are the best lenders that would approve me for a mortgage?

Problem is the area is one I don't like, bleak job growth, low class, challenging tenant pool and needs really good, strict management.

You want the net income after all expenses like, maintenance, utilities, taxes, insurance, property management (if needed), if the property is vacant figure that in, and Cap Expenditures (any big ticket items that might need fixing or replacing once you own), things like the A/C unit, water heater etc.

I have noticed some potential low cost rental properties in my area for purchase.