Discussing a fair resolution with the renters could mitigate any potential legal ramifications while maintaining a positive landlord-tenant relationship.

Real estate can "lose" value and still be a positive ROI because an income producing properties return isn't only based on market appreciation creating equity.

But let's face it – safeguarding our equity is crucial.

I have equity in both of my properties that I can leverage against if necessary, but I'm wondering how I would go about finding private lenders to discuss options.

A cash out refinance is a 1st lien position restructure of the entire mortgage that allows you to pull equity out as a lump sum and all is provided at closing.

I’ve heard from some lenders that I need more equity, others said there was a “cooling period” required after purchase to be able to use additional gained equity in land (from rezoning), and others needed prior experience.

:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+, zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680, some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

I'm in the Tahoe Reno, NV market and there is some strong appreciation and equity building opportunities.

Love the positivity!

Those are two really important questions.If it's been on the market for a while at $400,000, it probably hasn't gotten any built-in equity at $390,000.