I only go there to visit now - and would love to see that developed up. 

I'm currently visiting Columbus and visiting a business partner.

Depending on our cash positions we may go ahead and do these, even though we don't plan to build for a year or two. 

Question is, should I go ahead and sell off all the properties now while I am still have a job and sell will be reflected on 2024 Taxes, them 0 income next 3 years.

Visiting the city frequently, I noticed that it is not as alive, homelessness and crime are rampant, car break-ins are high, and the overall vibe of the city is very dirty and poor in my opinion. 

Have you visited any of the areas?

I know one thoughts are “I can sell it for more” but that increases the risk as well because if I had a $250k loan on a $225k property and values continued to decline and the mortgage is in someone else’s name - I would be like “ok let me hand the deed back and walk away and go ahead and sue me…

I currently live in Southern California but am looking to dip my toes into real estate investing via purchasing a rental investment property in Kansas City (I have roots there, visit fairly often, have real estate connections there, etc.).

As a complete newbie, I would have went full steam ahead with that $25k and bought something. 

They should be leading the charge, explaining the process ahead of time so that you know they are large and in charge.Definitely look for a new PM.