I'm looking to connect and network with other investors, contractors etc who have experience in this market. 

In your scenario you'd have a potential tax event on that $200K difference.Here's a creative way to access most of that money tax free however. 

Are they free & clear or have loans on them?

I typically don't comment on other's businesses unless I know from personal experience.

My piece of advice would be to try to take advantage of as much free education as possible with podcasts, forums like these, YouTube, and other real estate investors.

While Treasuries are often viewed as "risk-free" investments, certain real estate deals in today’s market offer a compelling alternative—especially when purchased at a deep discount.Take, for example, a 1,000+ unit apartment complex in a suburb near Michigan.

Can someone share your experience or point me to the right place?

It was a learning experience but I made it work in the end.Mine was a 5 unit commercial building that needed a gut renovation, similar to yours. 

It worked out fine, though each time I got a little less than advertised interest rate (about 9% vs 10%) and I had to send a reminder email to to get my money back, but I did get it back.I ask about others' experience, because I'm still not 100% sure it's not a ponzi. 

That's been an interesting experience!