HELOC denied, lots of equity, great credit score

[Adriana Sirignano]

I owe less than $83k on my primary with a 3.25% interest rate and can easily sell it for $320K, But I'm not selling it... My credit score is 802. I applied for a HELOC with Citizens Bank and was denied. I was told because I own a house in another state as "a co-signer" (no, I cannot remove myself as the co-signer) along with my primary home, that my income (W-2) I just don't make enough. I do not owe any other debts... NO car payment, no student loans, no credit cards etc. I would like to access my equity to use it to purchase another property, preferably a multi-family. What other options do I have to access my money? A cash out refi isn't an option, as I was denied for that too. I do make decent money but not enough to satisfy this bank. I don't want to keep inquiring with too many banks because they will all do hard inquiries and it effects my credit score. Any reputable lenders you can recommend? Thank you for any and all suggestions.