It wouldn't be that hard to get rid of them if you hadn't bought in NYC.....I know, your choice, just sayin'......

That’s the best bet.

Regardless of your choice, just remember that fear is part of the game and it's normal to have it but never let it consume you when the I's are dotted and T's are crossed, sometimes the only way is through so take courage and go on your way!

If you’re currently living in a bad school district and want your kids in a better school district or some other safety / life choice, you may need to compete in this market.

Based one the description you have provided on your current financial standing, a HELOC may be your best bet if you cannot find a partner.

It depends on where you are geographically and what your bet is.

Many of the cities on your list are in the Southeast, which is perfect if you want to bet on appreciation but not that great if you want a steady cash flow, if your goal is to generate some passive income target the midwest, and stick to solid suburban B areas, don't make the same mistake as many other OOS investors did chasing high double-digit returns in C-D areas, these returns only exist on paper. 

I bet you could find something nice to househack and then pay yourself rent for a change. 

Hang tough....I've been through similar to you and I bet a lot on here have as well.....

Spend a lot of time getting to know the neighborhoods in your market of choice.