You can really maximize your returns if you sell or refi that trapped equity.

I just moved back recently (I was born and raised in Springfield) and there is a growing push to revitalize the city after a long decline. 

I feel I am falling into the trap of the first time investor of falling in love with a deal and then trying to make it work.

Look up Medicare's IRMAA, Social Security tax rates (no idea if you will see this, but it will likely be around is some form), and the Widow's Tax Trap, which will cause the remaining member of a couple to pay so much more in taxes.My point here is that deferred income may seem nice now, but you will come to hate yourself when the taxes come due.Regards!

I can't scream "its a trap!!!"

I understand OOS can be a trap to newer people when you see how cheap the houses are compared to where you live and I am trying not to fall into that trap.

What path would you take Start by educating yourself on all aspects of RE but especially low and no money down purchases, use of Other People's Money (OPM) and value adds.Virtually none of our properties have any of our investment trapped in the RE due to value adds and refinancing. 

I think some of us are just "born for this" or "wired different" or whatever you want to call it.There have been countless extremely annoying/stressful situations that have happened to me over the years.

Please do not fall into the trap of you need to invest locally.

I have contacted the inspector via email to avoid getting trapped on the phone.