Compare similar listings—are they renting while yours sits vacant?

When you own a couple of units, the odds of there being unexpected vacancies that overlap each other are usually low, but when you acquire more and more real estate, the odds of tenants moving out around similar times increases. 

Are there other, more cost-effective alternatives to gain similar support and knowledge?

Saw a similar situation with friends.

Now a "Foriegn National Mortgage" has similarities to those mortgage types but you will pay a higher interest rate and be required to have a higher downpayment as well (usually about 35% down). 

Royce, yes you are screwed, similar to me but more so.

I'd really appreciate hearing from you if you’ve been in a similar situation or have any insights.

Its similar to being a cosigner.

Originally posted by @Eric Mayer: Not sure how much Marijuana you have been around, but some smells terrible and all of that can happen without smoking it inside.

Only invest in cities with significant and sustained population growth.Lasts throughout your lifetime: For your rental income to last, your tenants must remain employed at similar wages.