I don't think enough people consider this aspect.Selling Stock: Selling part of your portfolio could work, but the 15% capital gains tax might make this an expensive choice unless the stock has underperformed or you’re diversifying away from riskier investments.HELOC: Using a HELOC on an existing property is a flexible and relatively low-cost option.

If you are on the fence with the above, then you should sell now as you enter the spring market.

I am selling some land and some tiny houses i built this year but you know how that can be.

My materials come from distributors that don't sell to the public.

County has assessed for 200k but is worth more due to the area they are building homes left and right on that road and they are selling 300k+ and up.

My biggest rule it to pay off the heloc as soon as possible because the rate is variable and its much safer to be in a locked in mortgage.

Quote from @Brandon Foster: Hello Ryan,STR is do able in the north county area but there are a lot of rules and regulations.The city of Oceanside right now will not allow anything STR unless it’s west of pacific coast hwy.This is changing a lot too so you need to be aware of that in your plans.Carlsbad is super strict too but there are some condos that are still available to do STR in.Medium term rentals are as safer bet but way less profitable.

The "retire off of real estate" crowd on the internet mostly spouts nonsense or has something to sell. 

this is a direct relation to lack of inventory.. new construction on many markets is as robust as its ever been.. we have had spectacular years the last 3 years of course during covid was tough with supply chains but my 500k house I am now selling for 700k and my build cost have gone up by maybe 100k.. so record profits for us.. 

Based on your description, Party 1 seems like the safer choice.