Yet in almost every case of syndication underperformance discussed in the BiggerPockets forums there's the notion that there's fraud...desire to file SEC complaints....class actions.

This can appear intrusive and typically has the opposite effect than one desires.

What are techniques a home buyer can use to get their desired price that results in a builder accepting a lower margin.

Easier to manage, more desirable by tenants and better appreciation over the long-term vs a multi-family property.

Also, I note a hint of a desire for you to "give back" to your community in this...am I tracking?

Especially if you are in a 3PLEX or 4PLEX with two other guys in the house I would just pay it off unless you have it in with a Congressman in DC and can make 7.75% + enough to cover taxes + desired ROI that you want in the market and are willing to park it there.

Seven years ago when I first moved to Oregon my theory was: "If you own a home and land anywhere desirable in America in twenty years you'll be considered the exception."

If people want to do drugs and have no desire to stop then you can’t help them.

We are seeing homes, in excellent condition, in historically very desirable areas simply sit. 

Based on what you've said:- $160K in equity- Desire to scale You should sell the house.$160K as an investment into different propert(ies) can earn you a lot more than $750/month.