@Eduard Gibert Renart - Interest-only notes would produce a consistent yield.Another strategy is to buy discounted notes.

Make sure to define your requirements and screen all candidates consistently.

Demand has stayed consistent this year and end of year has been crazy busy with tax depreciation purchases or value add. 

You need consistent income. 5 units is not enough to keep you afloat especially with your situation.

You're not wrong but there's a consistency of look and this is a higher-end rental (although I'm mindful that everything has a range).

Sellers aren’t going to consistently take 10% less for cash.

Chapter Seven of the VA Lender’s Handbook clearly states:“If a property is to be owned by two or more eligible Veterans, it may consist of four family units and one business unit, plus one additional unit for each Veteran participating in the ownership”.

The property was falling apart  while they lived there, and it was difficult for me to get them out of there, as I was consistently getting the rent, albeit late most months and the property was falling further and further into disrepair.

In the meantime consider just storing your cash in a vehicle that offers a stable/consistent ROR.

Kudos to you, because I am sure that took a lot of consistency and determination.To answer your question about rental rates, 1) You should do some market research to see what comparable properties are renting for in your specific neighborhood or close by.