For someone that is purely a passive investor looking to make as much money as possible, I agree that real estate is not the best place right now.  

Purchase price: $160,000 I purchased a two story home by a military base from a family member for $160,000 but it is worth more.

The analysis also reports that new multifamily development will “remain near the average recorded over the past five years”.Integra Realty Resources’ 2017 Commercial Real Estate Trends Report ranks Pittsburgh #2 on its Top Markets by Multifamily Transaction Volume Based on YoY Change.Pittsburgh’s rental vacancy rate has declined by 25% over the last five years.Pittsburgh is booming with developments (see reference #6), “there is no better place to be a developer right now than in Pittsburgh.

I wouldn't pick a random market far away based solely on statistics or numbers.

Based on conversations, I think it might be a little of #2.  

Our goal is to establish a structure where the property owner can secure financing based on the long-term lease with the operational company.Any advice or insights from those who have navigated similar situations would be greatly appreciated!

• Is it all just customizable based on what works best?

Quote from @John Lee: Hi all,My name is John and I'm a recent college grad about to start a Masters (SF/San Jose Area home base in California).

If these homes were such great investments, they would keep them for their own portfolio.When you purchase an investment, calculate your returns based on actual performance.

The single biggest issue in my way currently is obtaining enough cash, whether it be my own, or through partnerships or family/friend-based lending (which I am very hesitant about to begin with as this could potentially strain relationships unnecessarily when money is involved).