Properties, for novices, which look good on paper and have good cash flow usually come with C to D+ areas, risky tenants, and a lot of cap ex that you can't see on the internet (basements, roofs, water issues, outdated mechanicals).You are turning a terrible loss into a springboard which is great, but you are trying to move too quickly it sounds like.

we can go up to 80% on a non-owner line of credit assuming good credit and a min of 75k.

Never a good idea to tell someone who is advising on this forum that they have mis conceptions about goals.. they are trying to help and may have misconstrued your postAnyway your plan is solid and I think you will will get there alone or using a  Joint  Venture investor  for sure

That could change, but as of now, it’s a good strategy for my property.

Build a Financial FoundationImprove Your Credit Score: A good credit score helps in obtaining favorable financing terms.Save for a Down Payment: Start saving for a down payment on your first property.

Good luck man! 

A Heloc is a good tool for doing renovations or repairs but not for down payments.Especially now that rates are higher on HELOCs versus a simple cash out refinance.

I like that compromise since it doesn't delay closing if all else is good-to-go.Here's a quick example of an appraisal photo that shows no trim in the laundry room.

Check out the local meetups in your area like this one.OCREIN - Learn How to Flip Homes in Less than One Hour (biggerpockets.com)Good Investing...

Need to check on the status now.Small claim court should be a good place to address the issue too. check the max amount small claim court is working with.