H there, I'm a certified international property specialist and while i don't personally specialize n Costa Rica,  have several colleagues who do.  

I would personally use some of that equity and get started with your first property.

The only thing that keeps me from owning a house for my personal use is the baggage it comes with like maintenance, time and overhead costs.But I understand It'll cut costs and is something I should really think about.Thanks

Trust me, I have been there.I suggest you try to House hack in cities that you are already familiar with and have some connection with.Hire a great investor agent in that market and ask them all your questions and concerns.That I believe is the best way to get personalized advice tailored to your goals and lifestyle.You giving out Cleeveland and Toledo on your post will only attract biased opinions and advise.Only you know what you truly like, want, and can deal with.As Nicolas said, read this post and comments and hope that gives you a new perspective. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1215726-break...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...Goodluck and keep us posted.

Advanced QuickBooks ProAdvisor was introduced in 2007, to get certified the requirement was: one had to be certified for 3 years in a row and had to attend 2 day in person and online courses.

please send me a case example I'd love to read. that's one appraisal. the knowledge I have as a licensed general contractor working with investors from 5 cities at a time all over the country buidling 3 different floorplans I would say trumps one ADU you read about online This is from my own personal ADU that I recently built and recently appraised earlier this year. 

Go in person to the planning department and talk to them.

@Kyle Cross, correct me if I'm wrong, but I think maybe what you're getting at is potentially pitching to your parents that you would like to take a shot at personally managing the units to gain experience and some form of compensation.

Personally I would defer this question to someone with design experience, not sure I have seen too many on here commenting.You could do something neutral but remember especially with the rug if it is light color it will likely run quickly.

That area’s known for its classic charm and high-quality homes, and if you handle this right, you’ll be tapping into a buyer pool that values both style and substance.