If you are looking for cash flow typically multiple unit properties are going to be your best bet but might require a little more work up front and there are not a lot of them around the area to scoop up right now.

SellersWith the changes, sellers will technically now have the choice whether they want to offer any compensation to the buyer’s agent...or none at all.

It doesn't perform well; your neighbor is a nightmare, they put more regulations, you get tired of running it etc.It may not be your first choice, but it will be a smarter investment overall, especially for newer STR investors. 

It's a way of hedging my bet using as little cash as possible.

Physical REI is not a paper investment; almost anyone whose invested on paper numbers I am willing to bet is showing a lot less than the reality of if it unless they took realized gains by selling(into the appreciation rate) or cashed out refi. 

But that is the key with investing, you need to have your educated guess of future events, place your bet, and hope you are right.

In today's market, your best bet would be a house hack.

That is your best bet to ensure it is watered regularly. 

Wise choice. :)

PM if you'd like more info.Can you explain how you were able to get a HELOC based on LIBOR, and was that a better choice than the usual "Prime rate".