There are a lot of good posts on here so I would take some time and read the forum so you can hit the ground running.

I don't have a lot of experience, but I do have the ability to exchange my time, so that could be a form a currency that benefits them. 

Quote from @Chan Park: It's time to step and be a Landlord, as uncomfortable as it may seem.

Do this quickly because some counties have a time limit on when you can appeal.I recommend you research the market for:- Comparable Property Sales- Condition of your property, including anything that may affect your property's value- If you are really serious, an expert appraisal may be worth the effort.

If it is not adding up, and you can find an attorney specializing in that type of thing, it may be worth paying for a little of their time.

remember, these are NOT conforming loans, so all the consumer protections one might be used to having aren't there.

At the time, PPR was selling courses for investing in distressed 2nd mortgages.

Perhaps some time will provide clarity in one direction or the other. 

What is the time frame for everything? 

That's great that he travels so much but ask him to provide where he rented and where he slept during that time.