There's a high chance that you are feeling FOMO from the returns in public markets, sell your houses for a loss, pile into stocks, and then see mediocre performance while real estate heads back higher again.I see this, and similar actions, play out over and over.Personally, I'd stick with the real estate rather than selling it.

I have been through the BK route more than a few times in 40 years of HML ing.. and as Don states it can be just crazy what happens what the debtor will do what the BK trustee will do what the judge will do.. that all said if your position in the note is discounted enough probably still worth it. but in my mind to pay 90% and if there is not SIGNIFICANT upside I personally would not do it unless you have a repositioning play or something that no one else sees. 

Quote from @Jonathan Bock: Most landlords are reckless and they would do some probing for fun and to save $. 

Quick cash on a flip is going to 1. give you more cash to play with vs HELOC interest rates 2. give you an opportunity to 1031 exchange into your next investment. 

Check out this article that sheds light on how they come into play with this strategy.

In my area a layperson can appeal; it is a 5 minute hearing but you can also get your taxes increased in appeal, fun right? 

Location plays a big factor into this question. 

Quote from @Blaise Peterson: Quote from @Adam Bartomeo: Play "Cash Flow" with her.

However, from the stories I've heard it so far, sounds like it can lead me to the life I want for my future if I play my cards right.

If you do not have 300k income you are not even allowed to participate at Accredited-Investor only Investment.It's just matter of time until the authority comes and investigate more private investment that involves public/investors money.I am also involved in certain clawback litigation against previous quite-famous-syndication that was under SEC receivership now.It's fun to watch how the GP has to sold all their Rolex watches to bring back the money back to investor.