In general, renting at mildly negative cash flow is OK, IF you're stoked on market gain potential and debt paydown, which in this case are well-leveraged by your low-equity position in the property.

I have no problem buying generic brand detergent because to me there is no difference.

It has mild lead issues which I am addressing. 

Weather change mild?

I'm trying to find areas that aren't over saturated but also have mild climates or little/no snow. 

My husband mentioned getting into REI and I was mildly interested but he was already neck deep in podcasts, had read 10 investment books, etc etc when he approached me.

Continue to invest in the migration trends of mild climates and low taxes (state income and property) and you will continue to make money if you buy prudently in those areas.When a recession occurs I agree that if you have access to capital you will benefit greatly if deployed correctly. 

Even if it stays more mild and kills only a couple hundred thousand, it's still going to freak people out, and cause a lot of problems. 

Seeing as I don't like the cold, I would prefer somewhere with a mild winter, but am open to all places.

Not allowing the use of personal wipes, not disposing of grease in the system, and usage of friendly laundry detergent should be enforced strictly to ensure longevity.