I always like to rely on factual data, so for questions #1 and #2, I can tell if you invest in the "sunbelt states" of Arizona, Texas, Florida, you are in very robust markets - see the chart below that combines population growth/migration with rent growth... then, if you have reservations on investing long-distance, research on multifamily syndications.

If you include utilities and appliances, this chart is null.I'm not advocating anyone here lower their rent to meet the voucher values.

Peak of the bubble in May 2022 they were a hair under 500k.

You'll never get a call at midnight from a note.I'd suggest that you kick around several ideas, get some input from BP and other local sources, and then sit down with a skilled CPA and/or fee-only financial advisor to chart a course of action.  

NO APPRECIATION.However, over the life time of the Investment... you TURNED $30k into $55,926.Given these two things:2017 - Invested $30k2016 - Returned $55,926You can calculate the Rate of Return as 6.43% per year which is calculated in cell K2.The Chart in Column I to J from 2017 to 2016 just shows you what it would be like as a CD.Hopefully I explained it better.Bottom line, the 6.43% has nothing to do with reinvesting the $250 per month.

You can do a lot with $400k and build a diversified portfolio - options range from SFR, MFR, flipping with value-add, buying land and developing, going out-of-state, to commercial syndicates on the other end of the spectrum.If no prior expertise in real estate, then stick to simple - SFR w/ value-add (in your home market or out of state) & commercial syndicates, gain experience & knowledge and chart your path forward. 

If you click "view data" next to any of the charts it will give you a more detailed year-by-year chart.

IMO, I don't think Windsor is so dependent on the auto industry anymore, as hits from closures have already happened here in the past & it's still climbing the charts for REI.  

They walked me through the appropriate charts of accounts for rentals, how to enter purchases of rentals, normal monthly transactions etc.

Keeps the drain from filling with hair, toothpaste caps, toothbruskes, razor covers, etc.