Just read the beginners guide - what a great resource - full of great info for someone just starting. 

In lieu of living quarters, and if your area doesn't really need the value of a garage due to weather, the best uses I have seen are full-service home offices or gyms.

Again I don't have the full numbers out yet because I am still learning the accounting point of things.

Even if you temporarily have to carry the full mortgage, your income makes that manageable.

You own one truck full of tools and if it gets stolen or breaks down, its now my problem?

Would really have to think about a full concrete house, if we didn't have large trees, balcony or porches to shade the house.

Studies have shown that guests don't want to book for a full week anymore, they'll pay more per night for a shorter vacation of 3 or 4 nights. 

If the numbers don't work with it then don't force it and don't rush it.Always ask for full or partial owner financing the answer will sometimes surprise you.We just bought a property with 5k down and owner financing the rest at zero percent.

Are you just short of the $600k meaning you have like $550k or are you the full $600k short.

.: It sounds like you have a great system down, and I am sure that you can find some handymen that are in the area doing part-time work and then working at a day job that could be pushed into full-time work on your properties.