Many would suggest against RE investing using retirement money but if you go into low risk opportunities it can be a powerful diversification method.

You will be facing refunds and bad reviews during backups.

Lots has changed over the years.Managing it yourself from a distance can be done, but it will require your team to be built and for you to have back up strategies if guests need attention and you're unavailable. 

It’s all BS.If AI truly worked, there’d be no need for DMM, D4$, cold calling, or any of these other methods.

Sure, I could look for a higher paying job, but I was wondering if anyone has any creative short-term methods to improve my ratio.

This depends on if you are using the Cash or Accrual method of accounting for tax purposes.

What other methods should I use to acquire another property? 

Under this method each investor has ownership and voting rights.

This will then allow me to do a sewer scope if/when the inspector finds a sign of a potential backup.

BRRRR method is also a great way to go - good luck!