I would suggest calling them and asking for their redemption process, and take DETAILED NOTES. 

My suggestion is to be patient and thoughtful. 

I agree with one of the comments below, follow what your friend is suggesting. 

The only item I would suggest is double check the payment terms of the your HELOC... in particular, can you pay interest only or are you required to pay a portion of principle each month on the amount utilized.

I think they can go very well if done right or poorly if not, and right.Here or a couple of suggestions. 

I've seen posts on here from a few years ago about rental portfolio dashboards, but all seem to be inconclusive or suggest a software subscription to have such a reporting tool. 

I dont have any feedback for turn key REI but lots of experience with 1031X and my suggestion for you is to make sure you have a good idea of the exchange you're going into or at least the category of homes or type you're aiming for.

That said since you want to get a graduate degree for work, I would suggest something business related.

If you allow this to continue, they will only get worse over time, and your losses will increase.I suggest you hire an attorney.

Use the two years to learn the area and I would suggest as soon as you can, find a duplex and start a house hack.