Have you and your wife considered exploring fully turnkey properties as an option?

Yes you have more options in the city, but it's no guarantee that you're going to get into a decent school anymore with families moving to catchment areas of the schools that they want and filling them.

At least you have the option of saying yes or no before it is sold. 

There are a few strategies you might consider to accelerate things.One option is a cash-out refinance.

In addition to what was said above, for the software that has a free trial option, sign up for it and use the software for a day (or at least a few hours) as if you are using it for real, then call their customer support too and get a feel for that. 

If that's what you're really after I would start with the basics of what kind of bank loans either residential or commercial are available to you - not saying this is the best option, but it's a good place to start.

(Auctions and foreclosures can also provide great leads.)With $20K, hard money loans are a practical option, as they emphasize a property’s ARV over your financial history.

The fact that a company has stoped paying interest on a promissory note and is exercising an option stated in the note to convert the note to equity is not in and of itself indicative of any fraud.  

Offer aid and housing options if you're able -- don't try to profit. 

I’m not sure a bank would be your best option but it can’t hurt to try.