She walked away with $1,500 in hand, and we salvaged the deal, netting $8,500 in the process.That deal reinforced two crucial lessons: first, title issues can create unexpected hurdles, even in straightforward transactions.

However, once we implemented technology a few years ago, even our local clients prefer to avoid driving and switched to doing business remotely.

@Raul VelazquezI would suffix what others wrote by saying that you need to understand that real estate really is a longer term wealth strategy - even though that is what you say you don't want due to your age / starting point.  

This can give you flexibility for purchasing or even renovating the next property.

There isn't even a question.

Look up 'Margin vs Markup if you're curious.)So if my Plumbing Sub-Contractor gives me a bid of $20,000 for your project, I will not tell you that number, I will just have a price of $25,000 for plumbing on your Bid/Proposal.Note: It does come out close to even for you........my plumber gives me a steep discount because I give him $100k worth of work each year......

You could even send it through Doordash to the guest. 

The reason I even ask is because I do have a clear understanding of how loans works, or should work.

Would love cash flow, of course, but if I could at least break even on a highly appreciating property, I'd be happy with that. 

Most lenders will let you use up to 70% or sometimes even less.