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.

Yes, they can dispute the charge and then the CC company will have to open a dispute that you will have to answer to attempt to get your money. 

Brian Spears’ account still looks open to me.  

They won't always be upfront about this with you but if know they're selling because they want to retire, that opens you up to different options vs if they're an investor just selling for profit.

Lets keep in mind there is HUGE money in Training far more than owning 200 row houses in Philly etc. 

In doing so, bear in mind that the cost and admin of a corporation is higher and that the tax treatment is different:1.

When I think of Blythe, CA travel centers, gas stations and fast food chains come to mind. 

It's open for interpretation, but if it went in front of a judge, they would look at the reasonableness of the situation. 

If you need working capital, commercial credit cards, or help fixing your credit to get funded, I'm open to helping.

So in my mind it would be best used as a last move into a REIT you never sell.