Honestly seems like a little overkill on this decision - unless its strictly a rate-term refinance because rates have dropped, it usually just should come down to a side by side comparison of status quo vs. refinanced (+ how any cash-out capital is deployed)

I do understand real estate is not a " passive" investment and does take hands on work with regards to even managing a the property manager.My initial thought was/is (given my current status) that the optimal strategy would be to look into turnkey properties to get started and once I move back into the states get into/invest in more areas of real estate investing.  

You can also check their reviews online at Google, Facebook, or Yelp.

Facebook is only too happy to keep presenting this kind of stuff to me daily. 

Question is how can I apply pressure on the syndicator to update status and return my funds?

Suggestion: AVOID LIKE THE PLAGUE.I never received my order, no eta, and the only response I received was dated 10/21 saying they’d contact the manufacturer for a status.

Every time I have listed a unit I get tons of Facebook trolls stating that I should be ashamed of myself and that my price is too high.

Explore real estate investments, leveraging depreciation or cost segregation to offset income.If you qualify for Real Estate Professional Status (REPS) or invest in a short-term rental with material participation, rental losses can offset W-2 income.

Quote from @Ryan Moyer:Doubly worrisome is that there are almost no hands on reviews of Hostaway, and any time the name comes up on BP or Facebook groups there are suddenly a dozen new "users" whose first and only post ever is to talk about how great Hostaway is, without providing any details. 

On refinancing and financing in general - we do have lenders that understand our model, again your AE can connect you.Agree on getting host feedback - please join our Facebook group!