I’m looking into alternatives to finding deals (PPC advertisIng/driving for dollars) but I’m not ready to tie up $50 to $60k in an unprofitable education.

I agree with the poster that said you can’t get involved in things or it will burn you out, but Thant doesn’t mean you can’t show some sympathy or offer help.The woman has been seriously ill and lost her job in the last year and had two kids murdered. she hasnt ask for a thing, so shes not scamming you, they have been long term tenants who paid off the mortgage in a year, so you have no mortgage but are still guaranteed most of the rent.It could do wonders for her (and you) to send her a compliance card and flowers or a ham or something, and let her know if she wants to move to someplace she would feel safer or has no bad memories you would be willing to work with her caseworker to find something else.

At least start with them and you’ll have a good offer to compare against alternatives.

I tried to find an alternative way to make money in real estate, and now am working with a broker for commercial properties. 

Your options are to find an alternative Commercial Lender who specializes in these types of transactions. 

I just heard about this alternative to tax deferral. 

On the flip side, you're going to have to ask yourself if you have any attractive alternates in which to invest your money and, preferably, are you willing to live in the in the new investment (i.e. house hack a multi-family property) or significant downgrade your standard of living accommodation.

There are also free alternatives or you can make your own spreadsheet.

Whole different vibe than a hotel alternative.

If you want a safer bet but with out much cash flow stick to the areas with the best school districts.  35758, 35801, and 35803.