There is an important distinction between these two types of investment to be aware of...

I think an important distinction needs to be accentuated.

I'm closing on my first rental property this week and will open a new account to keep real estate accounting distinct from my personal accounts.

How dangerous are some of these strategy questions?

Some declining location indicators:State or city population static or fallingLow property pricesLimited increases in prices and rentsHigh unemployment rateHigh crime - On Neighborhood Scout’s list of the 100 most dangerous US cities.Economic downturnIf your goal is a passive income you will not outlive, keeps pace with inflation, and is reliable, buy in a growing city.

Based on violent crime statistics, Stockton is the most dangerous city in California and the tenth most dangerous city in the country.

I understand there are always other expenses outside of the mortgage and they happen, if you can't pay for that stuff you're in dangerous territory IMO.

Appreciate you making that distinction. 

there is a large distinction between theoretical and actionable, but ill do my best to help.first read, listen, and watch everything you can on real estate investing.

This is distinct from bank fees for the loan.