We are also in the business of Short Term Rentals so that is another layer of risk. 

These dollars can be parked in a savings account with longer term amounts layered in higher paying CDs so that you are somewhat keeping up with inflation.

That type of behavior is everywhere masked under "trying to help a family".

@Lenza M. - Asking if Holton Wise is a Scam was a bit much.

What is interesting with these groups is they are all "old school" operators first and capital raisers many layers down.  

However, as you noted, managing a STR from a distance, especially in a high-elevation area with challenging winter conditions, adds a layer of complexity.

I think the privacy is high on my personal priority list as well, as i may have been going overboard by researching soundproofing solutions between walls and am actually in the process of adding another layer of drywall.

. - We currently use/layer AppFolio, findigs, and showdigs for management.

Personal preference, to me a lot of these asset protection schemes are like wearing a covid mask when driving alone. 

and the low purchase prices often mask major deferred maintenance that can be a surprise - the midwest housing stock is much older than CA, AZ, NV, etc.i'd encourage you to save up for a house hack locally and then house hack while you continue to learn and savegood luck