Tiling your tub surrounds to the ceiling not only looks nicer, but also helps waterproof the area better, and will likely never need replaced (versus vinyl surround which last about 3 yrs before tenants start cracking them, in my experiences).

Versus 2 above.   .   4.  

@Sushil Iyer I agree with @Travis Timmons that Temple and Belton are generally better pics with a more diverse economy versus Killeen.

Rental properties are great for passive income, and I’ve weighed the benefits of local investments versus out-of-state opportunities.

I call those "full-shielders" (Versus "partial shielders"  which don't).

@Jonathan Greene and @Mike Grudzien I agree but I was hoping to hear from some certified appraisers and if they would comp leased land versus owned land in an appraisal.Jonathan, you are guaranteed the land through the current lease period, but not guaranteed of a renewal.  

As far as break even cash flow on the rentals, it's the timeless question of cash flow versus equity.

The only random thought that come to my head was I Just thinking about lateral versus vertical scaling.

Quote from @Jonathan Small: @Theresa Harris good point that cash flow is hindered if you have debt on the property, versus it being paid off. 

Understand the difference between owning RE personally versus in a retirement plan.