It is something larger investors have access to as well - but from individual investors its a big bonus 

I own an investment property in Austin, TX with significant equity that I'd like to access. 

We are fortunate in that we have access to the MLS in our market but for deals outside of our market we use REIBlackbook to pull comparables. 

I like keeping property reserves in a brokerage account where I continuously roll them over into US Treasury T-bills at government auctions ranging from 1 to 6 months in duration.

Alternatively find the previous owner and try to get  permission to access from them. 

What's the best way for me to access equity in this TX property provided that I do not want to sell it?

Our tax system (maricopa.gov) has a searchable database that you can access and search for specific notices. 

If they say they haven't, they're liars: -)The key is t know the proper ways to respond.  

The tenant not cooperating with access for repairs as you stated, and now withholding rent. 

He dotted all i's and crossed all t's and my goal was accomplished.I know this post is old but if you have any more questions let me know and I would be more than happy to answer as my experience was top notch.