I don't think being a long distance landlord is as easy as some tout but full disclosure I've stayed with 80 miles of my primary residences. 

The housing market is always changing, and staying informed is the key to making smart moves.

We have told my ex-wife that we are willing to let her stay in the house for a time but she needs to pay rent.

You can then "gift" them the alcohol for staying with you.

Plan on staying married no matter how rocky it gets, work through it, it's worth it. 

Last year we began testing different places by staying in Carrillo and Junquillal with day trips to a lot of other nearby beaches. 

@Scott Trench - have you considered investing in short term rentals, materially participating, and having the average stay be less than 7 days?

People are more likely to buy and stay here, versus move around. 

I stayed in touch with all of my investors who bought off of me to see how well they did and my biggest joy was when they returned to buy more or told their friends about me and what I do! 

I would consider staying with your parents and investing in another market that stretches your dollar and covers the cost of a professional property manager.