It is rational for them to do the minimum amount of work possible to get paid.

I wouldn't let your pride get in the way of a rational decision. 

It can be rationalized as having a purpose, but "rationalization" is the most expensive word in the REI dictionary...and if you use it too often, you will be rationalized right to the poor house.Never buy a property that has negative cash flow. 

That number can be misleading...and rationalize a bad deal into a good one.I look at cash flow 1st, along with Cash on Cash Return.  

I'm more inclined to take action, but well educated and rational action. 

Just know what your exposure is and then make a rational decision.

@Nathaniel Busch , it doesn't work that way even though you're thinking is rational. 

Pay attention to gold/silver ration and if <45 buy gold, if >45 buy silver.

You're losing money from cash flow and from your equity and don't realize it because you're rationalizing it.How long have you been negative CF? 

Here are some details:Market: Sacramento Suburbs Value:~ $400KEquity: ~$250K Original Downpayment: ~$25KPrincipal paydown: ~$7K/year (loan has 15 yrs left)Price to Rent Ration: .47Cashflow: $150/monthIt had a good appreciation run over the past several years, however, the market seems to have plateaued a bit.