Overall, I've seen the demand for contractors remain extremely high.

With a 50:50 ownership, it may have to remain a passive investment for you both.

@Matt Holley you haven't told  us what the value is versus what you paid for it.A refinance will only allow you to tap up to 80% of the property value after 6 months.Not aware of any lenders that will give you a 2nd mortgage or HELOC to tap the remaining 20%.Also, would advise againsti it - even if you could find someone to lend!

Let the seller give their numbers first and ever remain the reluctant buyer. 

And then apply the remaining portion to the next year.

There are some great areas of Clovis that we have had lots of success in because they are safe areas yet older homes so the prices are remaining low and rents are still strong.

I usually travel to Jacksonville FL, what open dates on your calendar you have for the remaining of the year?

Lending conditions have changed, but the concept still remains solid. 

Become a powerhouse marketer and the rest will fall in place.Doing things halfassed (not saying you do it on purpose... what ever the reason  lack of knowledge, misslead by a guru...) the end result will remain the same.

And of course never actually pull the trigger; they just remain dreamers