The house had a sump pump in the basement which would kick in whenever there was rain and the water level would rise.

Rise above the fray; never speak ill of any man - or woman :) Silence is perceived as confidence.

Market prices are rising; It appears to be a sellers market.

Pardeep is correct that the housing market has seen rising prices for almost a generation without any meaningful correction.  

Remember a rising tide lifts all ships and a sinking tide lowers all ships.

Rents will rise, ideally you keep fixed costs in check, and cash flow increases...

Perhaps I should look into renegotiating my HELOC to take advantage in the rise of my home value?

If you have to amortize the whole loan into only 18 payments that payment will rise by $139+.As far as the overall capital stack, not sure this really works for you.  

The housing in the are of this home has begun to rise and we have decided to sell.

So just living the dream I guess.. those that bought rentals here a few years back are loving life as well.. rents went stupid rising up 50% in many cases.. what was 1000 3 years ago is now 1500... but that still on SFR's brings most in at the .08% rule.. but for multi there is some pretty nice gains and returns happening in an uber Strong and safe market  Risk wise.