I've always used my business solely to generate an income/paycheck, however I'm ready to transition and use my experience to facilitate investment opportunities.

Thoroughly research the industry, field, business you’re interested in to see if there’s a “niche”, unique approach, unserved customer base, or anything similar that can be exploited to earn income 3 standard deviations above the mean.

Bear in mind I'd still work, say a few days a week and make enough income between rental cash flow and working to clear my annual expenses by at least $25K after taxes.

I joined this group with the hopes of starting a Real Estate Investment business soon so that I can step away from the corporate life I have lived for more than 30 years.It's time for me to try something new...oh, where to begin :) 

I offered him seller financing so his wife could have guaranteed income without the hassle of dealing with tenants.

@Jeff RyersThere is a basic rule of thumb for income qualification but I use an additional one as well. 1.

It seems like at this moment you need active income.Real estate can generate income for you but it takes time.

I would definitely mention in your property description that the property comes turn key, and offer to show the properties rental history/income.

Step 1: Increase income, decrease expenses.

Accepting a reduced rent in lieu of making monthly payments to the water company would be one way as that would reduce my net rental income.