I'm just beginning but am considering a bigger commitment in the next five years or so by accessing some or even all retirement funds to buy a building (I'm sure people have thoughts on whether or not that is a good idea!).

My father did this in Portland on two properties, for elderly people I think. 

People told me I shouldn’t use my retirement funds to get started, but glad I did.

I was extremely humbled by people and their excuses when it comes to paying rent on time.

The five people you spend the most time with will influence you.

Some people will, some wont.

And my final dream is to buy land in my home country to build affordable housing for people there.

Quote from @Brendan Jones: For the homes, and or properties that you will use as a primary or a rental property one big thing I look for is infrastructure in the area, extrinsic value (I.e. hospitals in the area, schools, and job market), and the last thing is creature comforts for people (I.e. is a store to get groceries 1 hour away or 2 minutes away).

You'll have a property manager do the management (so you being close to it is not needed).Yes there are risks for some people to go out of state but if you learn the techniques like I have, you'll see it's actually easier and far less risky.

Looking forward to meeting likeminded people :)