they want to engage U outside of BP PM system were they get found out and cut off the system. 

I know losing a few percent to a realtor feels like its going to cut into your profits but a good realtor will bring so much demand that you will get more than 5-6% extra in your selling price and offset the cost of using a realtor. 

Does anyone know... once I place a lien on a unit for non payment, can I unlock the unit by cutting the lock to see the contents?

Numbers wise, seller financing would cut closing costs and be negotiated for a better plan that suits me and the seller, including interest rate.

I am sure many businesses cut marketing during a recession, right?

If you do this, make sure the seller signs the release of earnest money form and provide that to the title company so they can cut the seller the check.

@Minka Sha don’t forget 3 very important things. 1) your principal pay down, is probably $400-500/month.2) rent growth - PB is very desirable and rents will likely continue to go up over time 3) appreciation - coastal CA will always be in demand which will fuel appreciation You bought it with 5% down so have very little skin in the game. $1000/month loss like @Dan Heuschele calculated is tough to swallow but I’d guess you’re breaking even if you include principal pay down and appreciation.

As for my IRA, I simply want to cut some additional percentage points now that I've been getting everyone's feedback. 

My view: if you have renters with decent jobs, good credit, no criminal record, clean-cut, decent cars, decent personality, they are likely to have decent pets.

I am trying to find out what is my cut off to close the sale of the house.2.