The areas that are appreciating are way over valued and I'm not interested in looking in these areas.

My name is Jamison Shaw, I am licensed general contractor with over 15 years experience in residential and light commercial construction.

(which has gotten way, way harder over the last few years.)

If you were able to build equity over time, it could be smart to sell, pay off your loan, and use the money for another venture (flip, investments, etc) if it is truly bleeding you out.

I ask to take a walk through and document the current condition as my agreement states they can not damage the property during this process. and of course don't give them anything until you have walked through verified they are out and have voluntarily handed over keys. 

One strategy is to pursue properties (in your preferred markets) that have been listed for sale for over 90 days (even longer is better).

Working on large-scale data is great b/c sometimes it's all about how many owners you approach daily; the issue with over-the-top details is also getting lost in targeting specific owners and situations, aka focusers/tax liens, etc.

You may want to make an introduction between your CPA to those 2 colleagues.The CPA can go over their services and pricing to your colleagues.I partner with many people on real estate deals - It never gets to a discussion on whether they do their own tax return or hire a professional.If a partner mentions he will provide capital - does he provide the capital on a timely manner.If a partner mentions he will find deals - does he find many deals and provide an analysisIf a partner mentions he will manage a property - does he manage the property well(find tenants, collect rent, communicate with contractors, etc)

I purchased an STR a little over a year ago and my goal is to make it the best STR in our area before I even consider purchasing a 2nd STR.

@Patrick Braswell Got it. just didn't want you to spend all the time working with your family members if the bank won't approve a HEL.