This was a property that has so much charm and potential it was hard to say "no" to.

It is when you are ready for the risk and rewards.

Helping others is always what I’ve found to be most rewarding

I think going for off market deals can definitely be rewarding and can be a useful tactic.

Ultimately, you should ask for transparency into their operations, people and properties as well as timely (at least monthly) contacts.It is rewarding though after the initial hurdles, just like other RE opportunities. 

It seems pretty low risk to me, with a moderate reward.

Other options include, but are not limited to:Your mattressA lower yield FDIC insured accountShort term investments (like partnering on a flip, bridge loans to a wholesaler, etc)In general as you increase risk, you also increase reward BUT if you want to deploy this capital in the next 12-18 months I'd say the 1% or so APY is the way to go.

Overall I think you want to minimize risks/rewards.   

For long run, I still feel downtown has its charm yet before Vac, it is tough to ride the metro or go through elevator.

It's fun and rewarding in all the ways you described above.