Someone trying to earn 4-5% return they could get from a bank cd?

That's too much effort required to earn a few dollars on a short-term stay.

It was a great experience that helped fuel my passion for real estate investing.Recently, I took my real estate journey a step further by earning my broker license!

If you can manage the relationship to lessen turnover frequency and get a similar return as large landlords where if they took the same approach as the large landlord they would earn LESS.

I don't care if I earn a 1%-3% more if the risk significantly greater. 

The ability to find a good sales price under $200K with low taxes and affordable insurance is getting harder to find but in Oh & IN its still easy.Inventory is strong and the rents are above normal so even though your under $200K you can still earn a good profit.

Enjoy that well earned retirement. 

If you're expecting property owners to sell their home to you at a discount, you'll need to earn their trust - whether that be by demonstrating a successful track record with purchasing/selling similar deals OR by meeting them face to face and separating yourself from the dozens of local investors and realtors.Lastly, I'd recommend searching past posts related to this topic as well as checking out books related to your target investment strategies.All the best!

The account does not have to be an interest bearing account but if it is, then a portion of that interest earned has to be returned to the tenant annually.

I know it seems like a tough task, but can you spend a few more months or a year while you continue to learn to really tighten the budget or find ways to earn a little extra to start from a stronger position?