I am thinking HELOC may be the best way to go but when I went to my banks WF and BOFA they made it seem like the process was going to be in line with a regular mortgage which I am hoping to avoid as its such a pain.

I will highlight my 2 cents as a 15-year LL veteranDennis M from Erie makes a solid point - $500 deposit will not cover the extensive damage that a pet can do and the repair work that may need to take care of.So YES - you can get a little more money with non refundable deposits, or deposits, or higher rent.BUT actually keeping that money at the end of the day is hard to do.One thing no one has mentioned - that is that good prop mgt requires regular consistent checking in on the property - even better when you can drop in on a repair when they are not home or not prepared for your visit.

First, speak with your mortgage company, check you can make regular or one off principal payments, without penalty.Bearing in mind it can be hellishly expensive to live in Europe (depending on where), you might need that savings.Hedge your bets a bit, because it's a lot easier to give the bank money, than it is to get it back.

I know someone who just did one through their regular bank. 

I think it's just as much in taxes as a regular phone.

All the lessons are like diets, we all know we should be on one and know how to diet but neglect to do it even though we know it is the right thing to do.  

KILZ is more expensive than regular primer, but once you've had smoke tar bleed through a wall with one coat of regular primer and two finish coats, you'll pay the extra price for the KILZ.

If that's the case, we can use your BAH pay on your LES in addition to your regular pay to help you qualify. 

What benefits do landlords insurance offer compared to regular home owners?

Mobile homes can be cheaper, but they might not appreciate in value like a regular house would.