You could partner on some deals and increase your cash. 

@Gregory Press I would definitely increase your vacancy, I typically use 8% as after a year you'll basically have 1 month's rent saved up (1/12 = 8.33%).

Hi All,I have a simple/stupid question.

Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.

If you're up to the work and are patient, this is a great way to add value and also increase your inventory (which isn't abundant right now). 

An IRA contribution can help mitigate the tax bite but not much.But I get your real issue - you are wanting to eliminate debt not increase the portfolio. 

I don't want to seem like a bad landlord or like i don't have his best interest at heart but he simple doesn't understand that this is out of my hands. 

@Devin LondoI am not in Chicago, but also work in a competitive market that has high property value increases every year.

Home prices:  Even though home prices have increased significantly in these areas, I have not ramped down.  

I know part of it was an increase of interest rate, but I think it is more of a market speculation where most people believe the market is inflated at the moment and wait for an adjustment.