Why bother in SD Co? REOs and shorts are getting multiple offers within 2-3 days if they’re reasonably priced. Let the market decide what the value is, as opposed to backroom deals!
As to people (including yourself — sorry, you seem like a decent sort otherwise) who bought at inflated prices, boo hoo hoo. Cry. Me. A. River. An investment shouldn’t always be expected to appreciate, which is why it’s called an investment. Not a “sure thing.”
As far as you buying 12 years ago, if you bought at an inflated price, you took your chances and played the game. Not much sympathy from this end.