Kind of strange no one has come forward on these properties to cash in or do something with them.

It certainly isn’t out of the ordinary and unless they gave you reason specifically to not use them then I would move forward.

Avoid impulsive decisions.Keep moving forward, even though it's rarely in a straight line.

It sounds like Johnny should take care of the tax lien, then he will be able to move forward with the purchase.

As I see it, you basically have 3 options:1 - Move forward and get the clock ticking on equity pay down using OPM.2 - Hold off, and see if the market in your area becomes more favorable to buyers (how long will that take, and how much equity would you have in the subject property if you chose option 1?)

Well fast forward about 10 years, and I am not letting the naysayers hold me back. 

Thank you for reading and looking forward to your responses.

I realize that there are many ways to do this and being a newbie to this I a am open  advice and suggestions of what makes the most sense going forward.

The "carry trade" is sexy until it destroys your balance sheet.Short term, high value add deals that you can refi would be my strategy although in most cases  I wouldn't risk my home to do it.If you can live with a permanently higher payment then do a cash out refi and keep your powder dry for the opportunity with solid yield.If I sound like I'm speaking martian right now then don't move forward!

Profits moving forward are split 50/50 in perpetuity.4.