We are currently in a n escrow for a new home, our own to live in.

Here are a few innovative strategies that have been game-changers for my portfolio:- Co-Living Spaces: With affordability concerns rising, co-living setups are attracting young professionals and students.

I currently live Wisconsin and work in Real Estate.

Whether you're eyeing long-term rental properties, MTR Market, or are looking to live here yourself- this area is full of potential.

I've done three flips in Denver, where I live.  

I agree with the others here that say you need to have some skin in the game, if you are going to live there yourself, get an FHA loan rather than owner financing, you can get a 3.5% down loan, personally I do not love these as they require  PMI which is an additional expense, and you also need  bring additional funds for closing at least for taxes, title, attorney and transfer fees . borrowing from anyone else for the down payment, to include a personal loan from the bank is not a good idea, those again will be higher int. rate.

I would like to add 2 - 6 container living houses for short, mid or long term rental.

If you're a single mom with student loans, a car payment, and living paycheck-to-paycheck, then $20,000 would be devastating and a reserve is critical.

. :)This is especially true if you rely on furnishedfinder.com as your primary lead source (which you shouldn't, but that's another post) as when you make that connection with a prospective resident, you are selling yourself as a landlord as much as you are the property as a place to live.

I'll let others chime in on their experiences, but from a motivational perspective, I think attending live events and getting the "conference high" is something that only happens through in-person connections and being in the same room with investors who are eagerly pursuing their real estate/financial goals.