If you plan on moving do something else in the meantime and build up income/savings

Vanessa, If you choose the seller financed route, you could potentially continue investing under the bank's stringent debt-to-income radar, so to speak.

Before I retire I want cash real estate. 

I also am a member of the International Real Estate Federation, and can connect you with agents who are able to help with your purchase.  

Then you can read a more in-depth book like The Book On Rental Property Investing by Brandon Turner or The Unofficial Guide to Real Estate Investing by Spencer Strauss.You need to get a firm grasp on two things: the ways to make money with real estate, and how to find deals that match your goals.P.S.

@Chris ShonYes, a real estate accountant is worth what you pay them.

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

All this just to hopefully cashflow a few hundred $$ a month, doesn't seem worth it.Lately, I am really leaning on just investing in REIT's like Realty Income (o). as I write this Realty Income is at $57.75 paying $0.264 monthly dividend.  

If you still want to rent out your other bedroom you can have a tenant in the opposite side AND a roommate which would give you two income streams.

So, when Trump changes to no tax on tips I feel inclined to change my rental income structure.50% reduction in rent.Previous 50% made up from a mandatory nontaxable tip.