I've got about $525K in equity in the property, but lenders have told me that I cannot get a HELOC to access that equity for additional purchases because the duplex was financed as an investment - they have said TX law dictates that HELOC can only be used on primary residences.

Hello, I have a few questions about acquiring projects with different partnership structures. 

That sounds like massive renos (ie new floors, painting...).Yes as you acquire more properties, the chances of having multiple vacancies (no matter how leases are staggered) increases.

Quote from @Austin Ralls: Good evening BP Community, Can anyone shine some light on the rules and regulations on striking conversations with local pros and acquiring more PML to help fund deals? 

This will allow you to mitigate risk on the first property but also allow you to do a cash out refi on the second, so now you have access to tax free cash that you can do with whatever you please.

In my basements tenants have access to they totally disregard the access required and block the pathways needed for access.

Investment Info:

Large multi-family (5+ units) buy & hold investment.

Consisting of 112 units located in a growing and stable area of Dallas. This property offers spacious townhouse like setting floor pl...

With a smaller syndicator you will have access to the general partners for questions or phone calls.

The ability to use leverage to acquire more attractive assets and amplify their potential gains4.

We just acquired an existing duplex in Fort Lauderdale and planning on tearing it down and build a new duplex instead.