Like the way you’re thinking outside the box!

The biggest hurdle you'll have to overcome is accepting breakeven or negative cash flow at the start. 

Boiled down it's the idea of owning RE without any of the theoretical "headaches" of owning it - you don't have to come up with all the funds for purchase; you don't have to manage it; you don't have to unclog toilets; ETC.

I would love to meet you when you come out some time.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can maximize the wealth of information available: Check out the blogs and podcasts, or take advantage of the search feature (magnifying glass).

Quote from @Salvatore Ross: When it comes to finding the perfect property to manage/co-host, what’s on your must-have list? 

The fact other properties have chewed up sidewalk isn't a sound legal argument either.

Given your mobility for duty posts you can really ramp up your real estate portfolio while serving.Every time they got stationed somewhere they would purchase a property to live in using their VA and house hack.

The market in the area is dynamic and continually changing.

Everywhere I turn all I see are pitches for affordable housing and the same (not so) compelling arguments regurgitated by syndicators, capital raisers, brokers etc. for the investment strategy....strong returns...lower volatility....supply (huh?)