@Steve O'Keefe,From your posts, it is not clear what your long term goals are. 

It will help you track things more clearly and you'll be ahead of the ball come tax time. 

I figured this is what you meant, but just wanted to make things clear for everyone.

And its pretty clear those that follow his plan, especially to get out of debt have a lot of success. 

I still have dry powder and reserves and finding a better than 6+% hassle free, risk free and tax free return was more effort than it was worth in my market.When our why is clear, decisions are easy.

If needed, take a loan from friends or family, but be aware that comes with it's own risks, I've found you want expectations laid out clearly.

I bought the property and it’s supposed to be free and clear of mortgages/liens etc...  

Given that you were able to track down these two victims, it is clear who the suspect is - (4) (because this is not a case where the suspect was still there when the cops arrived, or “hot pursuit”) the police report goes to the DA’s office, and an arrest warrant gets issued.

Clearly this isn’t a deal.

Make sure to tell it clearly and concisely- with a focus on your track record and your ability to pay.MG