Other than lowering my DTI ratio (which is what I'm focusing on now), is there another way to realize that equity or am I stuck with dead equity until I can get that ratio to a better space?

Right now the stock market is in a short term decline and not sure what investments you currently hold in the 401K and how to time the market would be a better question for an FA (Financial Advisor).

If not, we’ll need to have one ordered for you.Entity Documents (NEEDED FOR PREAPPROVAL):LLC/LLP i.Copy of Articles of Formation/Incorporation ii.Copy of fully executed Operating Agreement/Partnership Agreement (all pages & amendments) iii.Certificate of Foreign Qualification (if applicable) Corporation i.Copy of Articles of Formation/Incorporation ii.Copy of fully executed Corporate Resolution designating authorized signer(s) for the Corporation iii.Copy of fully executed Corporate Bylaws iv.Copy of stock certification v.Certificate of Foreign Qualification (if applicable)Identification (NEEDED FOR PREAPPROVAL): Copy Driver’s License or Passport for each Guarantor.Rent Roll (NEEDED FOR PREAPPROVAL): We’ll need to get an understanding of the current cash flow of the property.

I was thinking about it similarly to the stock market where it’s about time in instead of timing.

For example we point out how well our kitchen is stocked.

I’m trying to figure out if it makes more sense to just do easy investing in the stock market especially if I plan to move out of philly to nyc in the near future.

Much of their food would spoil and they'd be hungry, and most people don't have a proper stock of food and what do you think people will do when they're really, really hungry?

Midwest housing stock is old.

It's really no different than trading a stock. 

do have a decent amount saved up in my stock portfolio that I want to sell to maybe acquire a second investment property but I’d like 4-6 unit would it be the right time now or take it slow and build up to that?