For any of these real estate funds that have guaranteed rates of returns for set periods I would want to understand how my investment is secured.

What I love about them is they will even accept the higher lease amounts over the market rents if we can show first month's rent and security deposit.

I position my inspections as 'planning for future repairs/improvements' which mitigates that whole 'he's here to get my security deposit' mindset.And, I would rather have the tenant with me than to have him later claim that something was broken during the inspection.  

Security investigated to find the renters still at our house.

When I started, I  submitted great deals to a corporate cash buyer,  they went behind my back and secure the deals with the sellers, after the  contracts expired.

Some of these Guys are pros at selling if you can secure a deal for 50 % off why would anyone give it away their are legit joint venture partners on this site that will help you and treat you much better as a partner just post it and see what kinda response you get .Have a good day.

Which one is more appealing - continuing to own the house or the security of that much cash/liquidity?

No offense, but telling people "that's not a good way to do it" and nothing more seems like a little league coach who tells his players "you're doing it wrong" but then doesn't give instruction of how to do it better.

@Justin FondrenIf your credit score is in the 700–730 range, you're in a great position to secure favorable loan terms.

The building next to yours looks much nicer and has THREE security vehicles parked in front.