Refinancing and/or supplemental loans can get you your capital back, without the hassle of selling. 

REI is not my FT profession (nor do I want it to be), but I do want to continue flipping a couple houses at a time (6-10/yr) to supplement my other income. 

That would be a more ideal way of entering the market being able to leverage your funds as an owner occupied and getting the mortgage supplemented by the tenants. 

I don't want to quit my job anytime soon.. but I want to supplement my ability to retire earlier, rather than later.

Currently I supplement a portion of a family members retirement monthly thru a dividend style payment plan.  

We are looking to get into Real Estate as a means of supplementing our retirement income down the line.

The goal in time would be to build up a solid retirement plan within the next 10 years and have some supplemental income from positive cash flow. 

If it's gas, you could remove it and replace with a gas fireplace, assuming the supplemental heat is required, Just a thought. 

I'm 31 now and would like to have some added financial security by 45 to supplement my income.I would say cashflow is the main priority, realizing that appreciation can be limited if I stick to the Canton market within my budget.

Selling homes will supplement the rental income until I can live comfortably off of the investments.