I think some of those experiences can help you decide if it is a good thing to pursue.I have seen several fairly big city wide PM companies sell in the past couple of years...Steven Rosenburg here on BP is one I believe. 

I went ahead and secured a HELOC.

Yes, college kids can do some more damage, but get bigger security deposits..there's a lot of money to be made for sure.Sounds like you're on a good track and best of luck!

I placed an offer on a triplex with security title company listed. 

I know the agent.Other than that, there are a handful of recently sold's in Bay Park over the last 90 days all that are marketed as "ADU ready" or "ADU potential" but no solid comps I'm seeing at the moment.I'm sure you realize this but there can be a wide range of pricing throughout Bay Park w/ the potential for custom homes and gorgeous views.

Do you already have the $125k HELOC secured or is that your estimate? 

I read Brandon Turners book on creative financing and I would love to peruse some creative ways to finance the deals. my question is, do I secure the financing before looking for a deal?

With all of that said, it does seem a little creepy to film people without their permission/knowledge, unless this is home security footage. 

(VA Loans have a very similar product line too for those who are qualified.)These are great tools in the toolbox, but they aren't widely known.

Looking for some insight from experienced STR's about whether or not guests would be turned off by the presence of exterior security cameras (definitely nothing inside the house - except inside the garage which likely would not be accessible to renters - debating that).