I’d rather have more properties with mortgages than a couple paid off properties.

@Daniel Amsalemhi. i see this thread is a couple months old. 

Working with a retiree couple right now in Carson City, and closing an 8 plex for a client down there in about a week. 

I have sold a couple of businesses as well, and speaking from experience, you are never more vulnerable to make a mistake than when you are sitting on a giant pile of cash.Also, I agree with @Corey Conklin - I'm a big fan of "overflow cities/towns" in the sun belt.

A couple of things I like to tell my newbies-Owning a short-term rental property can offer significant financial benefits.

While my husband and his ex make a similar income and do not exchange child support due to us pointing that out in court a couple of years ago, she actively request all financial documents that she possibly can and examines our taxes, etc. 

A place that is easy (and hopefully) inexpensive for you to travel to a couple times per year to check in on things.  

Quote from @Collin Luckett: I have a couple houses I’d like to put under contract as fix and flips and would like to you private money lenders to help fund.

Reach out if you like I can connect you with a couple of good property managers.  

I will be fully moved to Denver over the next couple of weeks.