Option 2 is what I'm leaning towards.

@Paul Sandhu lol unfortunately we know nothing about Kansas and I don’t think we are leaning that way.

You could refinance at the amount of the HELOC or fully leverage it at 75-80% (depending on the bank) and set aside the excess funds as previously mentioned.I've always leaned towards the long term play but if you are looking to quit your job, flipping a handful to build up a good amount of working capital could be the better option.

There is a lot of research that needs to take place and a few things you'll need to get set-up before you even start making offers.You do have an advantage though because you can take your California-dollars to a new, more affordable market, and make those dollars go further and work harder for you.To start out though, narrow down your options - take a look at markets you may be most comfortable with; perhaps you have family living in a high-appreciating midwest market that would make traveling to the state more convenient - or you have friends who just bought a home in the south-east that may be able to assist with providing you local insight on neighborhoods?

If the tree isn't leaning towards the house, I just chop 'em down myself. 

Great motivation to live lean, invest in real estate and reap the rewards!

It is also focused on more affordable housing, whereas the west side still leans higher income and luxury properties.

I have looked at a few, but they all are good at making themselves sound good and I am leaning towards Century 21 but would appreciate some advice. 

I was thinking of doing task rabbit or something to find people but my worry is someone getting hurt while moving heavy and potentially dangerous stuff (like various types of saws) so I'm leaning towards getting pros instead.

I’m leaning towards renting it out for about 2 years and then consider selling it since we wouldn’t have to pay capital gains on it.