Check out other online guides available here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides3.

It took a while but I eventually learned that this is not a get rich quick game and that the online folks trying to sell their books or services were doing just that. 

-where is the best place to find deals online?

So if he refinanced then he'd actually have a higher payment after paying in what he was paid for the land?  

Finding the true appreciation rate for specific towns can be a bit tricky, but you can start by looking at historical sales data, talking to local realtors, or even checking out some online tools that track market trends.If the condos you’re eyeing aren’t meeting the 2% rule, it might be worth reconsidering or at least getting a more detailed breakdown of potential long-term appreciation and other benefits, like tax advantages or rental demand growth in the area.

Cash - Then refinanced to renovate in 2020.

@Matt Devincenzo Matt is 100% right, they went online to some website to get a fake letter.

We will have a website that grows as our portfolio grows, and the advertising will be completely online via sites like VRBO. 

Do they have any google reviews or a presence online?

Also is there is a way to defer Capital gains.Market Conditions: Look into local rental market trends and economic outlook to decide if things might improve or get worse.Management Burden: Assess if managing these properties is too much work and if it’s affecting your cash flow.Alternatives: Consider refinancing to reduce costs or a 1031 exchange to defer taxes and keep investing.Consult with a financial advisor for personalized advice for sure.