So when I go to a credit union local to me, they dont allow me to do a HELOC because located in different states. so may I please ask if there are any suggestions on what is the best way to pull money out in this situation from the rental home?

It will make borrower money easier and cheaper.

Note that you may have more tenant-to-tenant issues to deal with though.As with any real estate investment, you pays your money, you takes your chances :)

I’m currently in a duplex that I house hack and the tenant’s rent covers my property taxes, my water and sewer bills, and almost all maintenance costs.

The rate on a hard money loan will be at 10.5-12.5% versus 25-35% on a credit card... 

I’ve heard about ‘gap funding’ for fix & flips to cover down/closing/holding costs in addition to the hard money loan for most of the purchase price & rehab, but how realistic is it to secure that type of funding?

Looking for insight into borrowing money to cover down payments and floating capital between renovation draws.

That has property tax consequences.The more improvements on the land (which includes fences) the more important a survey is.

If I build a basement apartment, can I write off a portion of the expenses it took to build the house when I go to do my taxes for 2024?

This prevents me from purchasing and maintaining bikes & golf carts so I see it as a way to save money and give guests a better experience.