I consulted a lawyer and a few other investors to see if there was anything else to try to do, but they all told me the only way I was likely to see my money was if they went to try to buy a house one day they would need to pay off my "Lien" before proceeding. 

Apply any money paid first to the bill, then to rent. 

Others will work with renters who are looking to buy their first property as an investment property.Regarding your questions, there are investors making money in this market.

Whatever experience you have can lend value, even if it's not from investing directly.Second, I think that property location comes after the location of your support group.

Money needs to be set aside for that maintenance.

Just by looking at these numbers & the fact that you have a ton of money you owe to pay down a HELOC.

Maybe I can make more money doing that then REI :)

It may be a little late in your case, but since the economy is tightening, others reading this might benefit by not have their money missing when they really need it.

The risk/reward ratio does not seem worth it, there are other less risky places to park your money with better returns at the moment.Also, as someone pointed out, you didn’t account for property management.

Maybe money is a factor...LOL, isn't it always!?