Keep in mind that sometimes, you'll have to 'right the ship' or change course to do what matches your evolving situation.On team-building: try to find the best solution first. 

This means not switching employers even if it results in a higher income, as counterintuitive as that may sound.

Wondering if we keep the properties, will it result in more of a loss in the long run with constant outgoings for repairs and empty properties.

Sometimes swinging for the fences right away without hitting the doubles results in a strike-out.Sounds like you'd have the equity to possibly get the down-payment you needed, through a cash out refinance - however I'd make sure you are really sure about the large purchase and its efficacy given where you are.

It is a result of a formula...and is very specific.The house you live in isn't an investment. 

I do however want to channel my efforts in result driven task.

If guests disregard the check out time, especially after asking and being told "no," I will charge 1 night's stay against their damage deposit IF their tardiness actually resulted in a disruption to my cleaners' schedule such that I need to compensate them extra, or I have to delay check in for the next guest; otherwise I'll just ding them on the review for how well they follow the house rules.

Meantime, renting it out for less than the "1% Rule" could result in negative cash flow...

If your successful selling investors your terms, and their happy with the result, then everyone wins.  

End result: Vagrants, dilapidated houses, Meth labs, and more people struggling with housing.