But I would remain open to long-term rental as an option as this seems like a more stable option in terms of income, again this may be my inexperience talking.However, I have always  been somewhat risk averse and investing in real estate is always a big venture, in my opinion/experience, in terms of capital.

We’ve found a great option for us in Tennessee with a cabin (currently used as a str) and a mobile home.

I don't see it as an issue but many still do, at least in my small town where the majority of renters are elderly people looking for low maintenance housing options.

I'm California-based where there aren't any real deals in my area, so I'm exploring Detroit as an alternative real estate investment market - due to the combination of it being a strong market and my having connections in the area. 

Alternatively, I could explore hard money lenders.

FHA gets a bad rap because sellers and many agents think it's only for people who don't have the money so if I had 20 percent, but wanted to use FHA, I would present a proof of funds with my offer showing I have more money, but am using the FHA as a financial option so I can get an investment property as well somewhere else.

With countless loan options, complex terms, and strict lending criteria, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

While Treasuries are often viewed as "risk-free" investments, certain real estate deals in today’s market offer a compelling alternative—especially when purchased at a deep discount.Take, for example, a 1,000+ unit apartment complex in a suburb near Michigan.

I'm hoping this forum can help me understand what my alternatives are.

If you are hoping that this property will stand on its own with you living in it and not having to put your active income into it, then it might not be the best option for you right now.