The deed does not convey BUT buyer is fully secured in there position with the recorded closing of the C4D.

You and your legal, tax and financial advisors should review this transaction in greater detail, especially the PLRs, to ensure you understand the significant risks involved and are structuring the transaction as close as possible to the PLRs to mitigate some of the risks.

I’ve been in a similar position where I wanted to scale but equity was a limiting factor.

Sold 4 of our 8 Selfstorage locations to get in a better defensive position.  

Real estate investmnets are capital intensive and if you don't have extra money sitting around to make the emergency repair when it happens you'll find yourself in a terrible position. 

Better Business Bureau reviews, etc.).Can I set up a self-directed Solo 401k if I have full-time job?

I don't know if they still do it but if memory serves a few years ago TD Bank would do a HELOC on a rental in second position but only if it was titled in someone's personal name. 

Recently, I sold my position in a company due to an acquisition, which liquidated $750,000.

Positive Home Value Growth ForecastWhile the pace of home value appreciation is expected to moderate, Zillow forecasts a 2.8% increase in Buffalo’s home values for 2025, indicating continued market strength.In summary, Buffalo’s combination of strong job growth, relative affordability, limited housing inventory, strategic location, and positive home value forecasts solidify its status as the nation’s hottest housing market for 2025.

The numbers may be 30-40% lower than today's cost, but the process/approach to estimating may be good for you to review.