We are seeing stable appreciation and good cash flow in the neighborhoods we have purchased.

So, for a farm I'd expect lots of land and a small portion of the land has improvements, e.g. house, barns, stables, storage, etc... 

Check the local jobs market to make sure you have stable long-term employers.Find some listings that have recent sold that were well udpated.

You should be focusing on deals that you can acquire and know will remain solvent and stable through the down cycle.

When they moved out I found all the filters still in plastic sitting on a shelf.

More money than you need, more money than you can spend.Wash neighbors cars for $20 or learn to Meguiars detail cars and charge the customers big bucks, start a lawn service, get a temp job, get a better paying job--that is stable long term and not risky.

I think either or both of them would do very well hiring on with a local (or remote) real estate investor, learning the ropes while doing leg work, making calls, etc.What can we/they look into that would not rock their boat but allow them to move into something more stable, most likely being able to house hack.

It seemed stable and steady.

At least you are the General in control.DM me the location and I can help you see if the rents are stable.

Long term are more stable with rents and STR is seen a s business with adjusting rates, constant repairs and trying to market your property above the rest to become a super host.