The deep pockets (individuals or hedge funds) just don't go into smaller towns so you can still get deals every now and then.

I know deep down that I could not live with myself if I just gave this up at this point, so I am committed to going at this until I have achieved my definition of success. 

There are investors in Toronto with deep pockets willing to pay WAY more than that for what you're describing in that area, so make sure you're buying what they don't know is for sale.Go to the neighborhood where you want to buy.

We are knee deep into a second projecxt and recently won a bid for a third and are looking for a 4th. 

A 1031 “backup” as others have discussed above, is a great idea to get you something breathing room. 

I have a good friend who has deep contacts in Oklahoma RE that he will connect me with. 

If something had gone wrong in the first year of owning my rental I would have been in trouble but with the same breath I would say, I was laser focused and I would have figured it out and if you decide to jump in so will you!

:)  Yes the Tesla tiles are a non-starter for all bar the 0.01% with incredibly deep pockets.

You have to be passionate about REI and hustle, have perseverance, live/breathe/eat REI,  have perseverance,  work the numbers, have perseverance and finally TAKE ACTION.  

Apparently its been going on for a while and has put some ruts in my yard, not deep mud pits but it's obvious that the grass is being driven on.