I'm actively seeking mentorship from someone with experience in similar markets who can shed more light on this process.

Cash-flow is for "keeping the lights on" as in covering operational expenses to defend against any need for additional capital investment. 

And I can see why the different offerings (some stock light, others heavily) make sense.

The president has zero impact on underwriting guidelines and  zero direct control of interest rates. in fact the fed has no direct control of long term rates that effect mortgage rates.

A nice multi family property that you can do some light fixtures on sounds like a perfect strategy for you so you and your wife can have your own unit.

Install cameras and exterior lighting on timers, place no trespassing signs, and place items that indicate occupancy - like a BIG dog bowl near the front door, shoes, etc. 

A 1031 exchange doesn’t apply, but funding through a self-directed IRA can defer taxes, though profits from debt financing may trigger UBIT.To reduce taxes, consider forming an LLC for better expense deductions, offsetting gains with investment losses, or holding the property for 12+ months to qualify for lower long-term capital gains rates.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

As the economy shifts, there will be new ways to grow your portfolio, but success will require staying nimble and informed.Bessent’s commitment to cutting the federal deficit involves a mix of spending cuts and revenue adjustments, which could directly affect government-funded housing programs and infrastructure investments.

To deter the break-ins you need to have window coverings on all the windows, a light on and not advertise that the unit is vacant.

If you had $50K in a Self direct IRA how would you leverage that to yield short and long term dividends?