Partner with Other Investors: One option is to collaborate with other investors or partners who might be willing to put up the EMD in exchange for a portion of the profit.

If that's not what you're looking for, Carrot sounds like a better bet (I'm not familiar with that product, just from what people are saying).

I think we could exchange some valuable insights!

There's one thing, though - I bet it's 10X the BS of any other guru!

Cut free of your "golden handcuffs" with the minimal interest rates on these properties and sell them all (or the biggest headache properties) and do a 1031 exchange into a bigger property or package of multi families where the cash flow is better, numbers make sense, and you can streamline property maintenance and management rather than having 6 different single family homes. 

I am looking for a property that fits my short term rental business needs, so far sticking with properties that are unincorporated and not part of any HOA are the best bet for the longer term.

Your best bet is to list it in the open market (MLS) with a local agent, with the option of furnished or not, and be prepared to have to clear it out should a buyer not be interested in your personal items. 

I really see Columbus Ohio as an extremely safe bet for the next 10-20 years.

Can anyone verify the tax treatment as of today that a gain from owner occupant unit is applicable for Sec 121 exclusion, and a gain from rental unit is applicable for 1031 exchange?

I’ve periodically had tenants at the Multis offer to “help with the landscaping” in exchange for a discount on their rent.