A restaurant or café with outdoor dining could thrive in this environment (there are not so many around the area), benefiting from the steady local traffic while also enhancing the appeal of the residential units.

That is one of the most incredible benefits of being in the service. 

I'm giving Marco the benefit of the doubt that he intends to keep his reputation and get this thing done right.  

Renting it out would let you keep the asset, earn some extra cash, and possibly benefit from tax deductions like depreciation.

It is difficult to property vet these operators without learning on the experience of others - that is one of the biggest benefits of finding a Community!

I am willing to give up control to benefit from the experience and efforts of a good operator that I trust when I have the capital to deploy.The main reason for this has to do with time.

You should consider investing in RE outside your retirement account as well since there are different tax benefits available.  

But then on the positive side you've got the amortization of that loan, the tax benefit of depreciation and whatever appreciation there is.

The principal sum, plus all accrued interest, as defined above, shall be paid to the Holder upon as set forth herein.Payment & Due Date: The Maker shall not be obligated to make any payments ofprinciple during the term of this loan until January 4, 2024 ('Due Date"), at which time the entire principal balance, plus all accrued and unpaid interest, and other charges, if any, shall be immediately due and payable in a lump sum balloon payment to Holder.Collateral: This Promissory Note shall be secured by a mortgage lien against thefollowing real property: Address listed; (the "Property"), executed by Maker for the benefit of Holder.Assignment: This note is NOT assignable by Maker without the written consentof the Holder, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.Default: The occurrence of any of the following shall constitute an "Event ofDefault':Failure to make any payment due hereunder;Nonpayment of principal upon the Due Date;The breach or failure to perform any of the terms, provisions, conditions,promises or agreements in the Note, that is not cured within five (5) days ofthe date of written notice from Holder;Any representation or warranty made or deemed made by or on behalf ofMaker to Holder under or in connection with this Note shall be materiallyfalse on the date as of which made;

Then after a few months, you will appreciate the expense of outsourcing, and the benefits.