Look for bank deposits, checks paid, etc.Tax records are a good source as well.

Is your ARV inaccurate etc.You should also be sourcing off market deals.

All qualify for 1031 treatment so you don't have the tax bite and all can provide a source of residual income.The question is where does your passion lie.  

I would echo setting up the HELOC, but only as a reserve source of quick cash. 

If you cannot move a deal, then using list source to find 100% equity, absentee owners, with purchase date  last 3 to 6 months in that specific zip code are your cash buyers.

By controlling my food and energy sources, I can ensure security and health, which I can than build other investments (like RE) upon.FYI - my "congenial old couple" example is actually a true story.

Go to the San Jose Reia's   also may want to talk with Mike D Arrigio he is right there.one of Kathy's vendors lives in BErkly so you could go to the source on that one

In the process of saving money and credit, I am putting myself in a position to find more sources of deals as well as possible equity partners and close on a deal myself. 

Are you planning on keeping a 9-5 job, hoping to use your license as a source of income (representing clients), or are you retired already?  

Don't let heresay dictate your business, nothing replaces finding out straight from the source.