What i did not have to do while owning them though was roof plumbing elec appliances stuff like that.. those lasted a good long while..

The way it comes across is that his insurance payout escapes taxation, as long as it's below basis/purchase price. 

If the market continues to appreciate, holding the property could yield more long-term equity gains.

Since you are already familiar with house hacking, I would consider converting your current home into a rent-by-room or whatever it takes to keep it as a long-term rental, then look for another home you can hack.

I doubled down not too long ago.  

Every restaurant had a long line.

I imagine it’s a relatively short drive from Southwestern Ontario, and it offers some unique opportunities that align well with what you’re looking for.Detroit has seen tremendous progress over the last decade, with significant investment and revitalization in many areas.

A relative who does long-distance real estate investing told me that I have to sign the final loan document and the transfer of ownership document in person.

Look for books published in the last 2 years as some of the books post 2010 seem to give people unrealistic expectations.

This signals long-term appreciation potential.