I’m looking into Columbus, but would like to invest in The Queen City as well for diversification.

In addition, you waste the tax advantages inherent with rental real estate when the asset is owned by the retirement account because the income produced is rendered tax free/deferred.Given all of this, my view is that it is good to have some diversification, holding both rental real estate and notes in the investment portfolio, favoring ownership of notes in self-directed retirement accounts where possible.

DST's are going to have every kind of imaginable asset class that they might be interested in (can do more than 1 and provide broad diversification depending on the size of the exchange) all while being more institutional and hands-off than they are used to.  

Diversification can include different property types, locations, and investment strategies.Remember that real estate investment can be highly profitable but also comes with risks.

It's a good diversification play, and a way to get exposure to RE without having to be hands on.

The ability to have two separate rental units means a more steady and substantial cash flow, providing financial stability and security.Diversification: Investing in a duplex allows for diversification within the real estate market.

Always look at the economic development and job diversification in any area and that will tell you if you should do long term HOLDS there.

It also provides diversification, since you won't have all your rent roll in 1-2 tenants.  

The crowd source opportunities would be a bit lower risk due to vetting and greater diversification but will be lower return due to higher costs.For me personally, doing my own deals is both higher return and less risk as long as I am ok putting up with the work and hassle involved.

When you buy, sell or refinance, it will take time, and there will be legwork and various financial costs.Not trying to sway you either way, just pointing out some characteristics of rental property investments.For investing in stocks, I would use good diversification, and not put all my eggs in one basket.Best of luck!