We are able to get great incentives and the ability to own an investment property that take a very light maintenance budget for the first few years is a huge plus.  

Cash-flow is for "keeping the lights on" as in covering operational expenses to defend against any need for additional capital investment. 

Keeps costs low and guests satisfied!

What type of lights do you have that are $250 more than usual (was this over the course of a month)... 

Depending on your credit score in the US and credit trade line history, you could put as low as 25% down.

There are also several funds out there that provide high single digit yields that are low risk. 

House hack another property with a low down payment loan and use the remainder or the proceeds to either renovate or purchase another investment property?  

I disagree--there are more tough times ahead, but as stated above there is light at the end of the tunnel and this time it's not a train. 

If your manager is just 'keeping an eye' on things, collecting/reminding on a few rents here and there and some light cleanup while being compensated in free or reduced space rent then classifying them as 1099 subcontractor is great. 

However, I like that there isn't a lot of work to do and I could still make the property really cute with not much risk.Inventory is so low.