If this is not possible, take some time to get to know and be-friend the other HOA board members before you waste money with an attorney.

What are my next steps I should take as the property owner prior to court proceedings? 

All situations are specific to individuals.Our best wishes and empathy go out to those LA individuals and communities.It’s been about 6 years since one of our storage locations was flooded for about 4 months.  2 feet over the roof.  

Thanks for all your help guys!!

It'd take ~16 years to get the same cash out from the first scenario as the second (~10k).

Since your name is on the deed, you have a few options to secure financing for the rehab:Home Equity Loan or HELOC – Since the house appraised at $500K and you own it outright, you may be able to take out a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC) based on the home's value.

At least a lot better than the path I chose to take. 

You can register the phone numbers with all the major carriers to decrease your chances of being flagged for free.

Listen to as many podcasts as you can and attend all of your local meetups to connect with other investors.

As part of the sale they take $500K in cash boot.