The stuff that is getting crushed seems to be the generic SFH or apartment that was thrown up without much thought and made money in the post pandemic boom but is struggling to compete now.  

This implies that it is difficult to include the utilities in the rent without supplementing the rent.As utilities increase, the tenants pay this increase.  

Just selling 1-2 houses per year can really supplement your primary source of income.

You're right, I need a partner to supplement where I lack. 

I offer a supplemental protection program for my clients but it doesn't cover them when the property is vacant.

I invest in a generic version of the Sentricon system by Terminex for each home.  

It's a supplement to everything else, and a means to fund other investments (REI).Most of the information you've mentioned are what is passed through blogs, and other media that just isn't true. 

If you are looking to leave a job sooner, than make sure you supplement your rental portfolio with flips, short term rentals, or other active income.

Maybe be worth it to consider as a supplement to your real estate goals.

Their salary is supplemented in the summer by research grants.