Focus on getting your finances in order, setting achievable goals, and finding a mentor or local real estate groups to guide you.

Currently I own a large real estate company and still get some great value out being in his inner circle of real estate operators. 

You're also trying to raise another $100k to rehab the property to get it leased up. 

Hopefully, you find it helpful and qualifies us to assist you with your goals:)---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

So it looks like you would need around 4-5 years to get to break even by selling those stocks and paying the tax now. 

We get paid the same whether you take a higher rate or buy down, but there are absolutely times when it makes more sense to do it one way or another.

In my area these are rare so they are difficult to set market rent, and I imagine get a lot of wear and tear with a lot of occupants living there. 

Quote from @Logan Barwick: I Am looking at getting involved in rental properties and debating on which option would be best.

For example, I own two large multifamily buildings, and when I tried to get a tax exemption for them, I had different experiences.

Getting the proper endorsements is a real joy.