The business has become so profitable that many of these big guys are slowly moving out of the apartment business by either converting owned properties, buying others... or building new condo developments. This is a wake up call for the small real estate investor. Start looking for motivated condo owners!
If you have a low interest rate on your home, invest your equity in a low risk investment that has a much higher return on your money.
Buy an existing business or start a new business with the equity capital in your home. If you can start a low risk business, take the opportunity to let your equity work for you.
Use the equity as a down payment on an investment property or a rental.
Instead of getting a refundable deposit (like you would get from a renter), you get non-refundable option money. I suggest charging about the same as you would charge for the deposit... typically, 1 month's rent.
Check out what is customary in your area. Some areas are getting as much as 5% down on a lease option!