Any recommendations on the most efficient way to track your time when classified as a real estate professional?

A refi makes more sense if you plan to hold the property long-term as a rental.

Know your responsibilities as a landlord instead of acquiescing to every request or complaint.

I have two banks that have done so as well as a credit card, and know of a couple of organizations that have as well.

Without knowing all of your specifics, I'd say that it's only worth holding on to if you can reasonably expect to have some really good appreciation in the near future (like 5 yrs)....Or, in the case where it would run well as a vacation rental, you could switch the usage, maybe?

As Columbus cements its reputation as a tech hub, the ongoing and planned investments by major tech firms are likely to ensure long-term growth in the local real estate market.

Real estate has always been in the back of my mind as a way to increase our wealth and provide for our family.

Not a tough process (unless you stink at your job as a property manager, right?)

And if it's a high amount, would you be better off just using that as a downpayment and get a standard new investment loan?

Whenever I have used seller financing as a buyer I always put in the note that the note holder must give me the first right of refusal to purchase my note at the same discount they are selling it at.