This amounts to lost opportunity because if you had purchased RE, at the closing it can start producing return. 5) ADUs detract from the existing structure whether this is privacy, a garage, or just yard space. 6) this is related to number 1, but there are many more buyers looking to purchase homes for their family than there are RE investors looking to purchase small unit count properties.

these can produce good returns but best chance for success is for those that have experience in this area (I am a partner on an effort adding 8 ADUs, but it is not performing to the initial underwriting (underperforming) and it is an experienced team).good luck I get it, but not everyone has the opportunity of scale and building multiple units.

I want to invest it wisely so that a part of it is used for my living expenses and the remainder invested in RE producing cash flow and appreciating over time.

Since then, my cabins have tripled in value - worth easily $800K or more, and have produced $696,XXX in rents.  

Anything and everything that you can do to show others (and prove to them) that you have a talent for selecting properties and producing actual results.If you do that, people will take notice. 

You mentioned that you are not a W-2, but that is not the only status of income producing individuals. 

Join a hugh producing team.

He became a contractor, worked hard, and grew a successful business that produced a lot of money.

Perhaps shadow a top producer in your office, After that stability and you have a nest egg.

To maximize your tax advantages, treat 75% of the property as rental income-producing, allowing you to deduct expenses like mortgage interest, property taxes, and depreciation on that portion.