They paid higher down as a place to park their money, propping up the housing values.

I think they are trying to take advantage of me and maybe money is probably tight for them and they are just trying to use me!

Did a "hard money loan" with family using gift tax exemption and trust as collateral (despite what Dave Ramsey says, my father and I have an incredibly strong investing and personal relationship).

Fortunately, all three inspectors (from different departments) were very supportive and one inspector even stated they will not return, even if another complaint is filed.I want to offer a cash-for-keys option, but since the tenant's attorney is from a nonprofit, I feel she will fight for her tenant to stay.

The idea that you can build wealth without putting any money into it is a recipe for disaster and the sales pitch of gurus trying to steal your money.

I once had a guru say that people who use their own money in real estate are lazy.

With your $50K in debt, use the cash flow (keep some aside for taxes) to pay down the debt as well as any other money you can (assuming it is a higher interest rate). 

Lee - How to Make Money in Real Estate Tax LiensProblem is they're all fairly generalized and talk about the basics from a global/overview perspective, whereas Tax lien certificates are all county-specific and are based on local and state rules and regulations.

You can always sell without an agent, but it could cost you more money and more importantly, money in the long run..think of it like this…maybe a strong buyers broker would’ve urged more caution with the initial purchase? 

But a good skilled worker, whether GC or sub's, can be invaluable.With all that said, to try and save money, I would see if you can find a good home inspector referral, many of them are or were GC's themselves, and pay them to check out important work that you have done.