I now want to proactively invest in more properties, but feel I need to access the equity in my condo or SFR to do so.  

But since there is a limit to how much money the bank has access to....their rate will be higher...and usually a shorter term.

If you are like me, and just wanted access to the MLS to search for deals, I would search for a 100% commission only brokerage as they will only charge you per transaction.

We have a large portfolio of rental properties and I constantly receive these types of communications, the majority of them unprofessional where the delete key is my response to them. 

If you’re still in your inspection period or can access the property try to get a plumber and a contractor in to give you an estimate.

With the coin operated machines you're constantly dealing with people breaking the machines and stealing the coins.

Build both, constantly. 

If you wanted to go even bigger, you could probably even consider putting up a portion or all of your $100k, and partnering or syndicating with other investors to access even greater economies of scale.

Fast forward a few weeks and tenant B is constantly asking me if tenant A is out yet so he can go get his stuff.

TLDR: Agent had only two showings in 6 weeks, was too drunk (puking) and listed our property 4 days late, my business partner and I had to constantly follow up with agent, constantly told us we were priced correctly so we rejected a lower than asking offer, now saying we should have taken that offer.