My strategy is to buy and hold, for now.I know most folks believe in purchasing property locally, but I am trying the alternative - earning money from my full time job at the DC rate and spending it in markets where property is far cheaper, and expenses lower.

Maybe they meditate or pray or spent some quiet time - in a forest, by a lake, or some other place out in nature - trying to find and listen to an inner voice, etc.That's all fine - but don't spend a lot of time on it.  

This structure will place some responsibilities on you as trustee and administrator so be sure to utilize the provider who offers support and help you navigate through requirements and keep your plan in compliance.Then after your plan is established, you can use those plan documents to open non-prototype retirement account at Fidelity, which will allow you to buy and sell stocks and also offer you the ability to have checkbook control to invest in alternative assets.

few understand the true nature real estate (non- commercial).

Definitely find a few photographers who specialize in real estate.Don't just go with someone who does weddings, nature, etc. 

Hopefully I'll be able to learn more about alternative approaches after getting up there.

Since you know you want to do it, it may be an alternative to consider while also taking a "day job" in some related field (title company, realtor, lender, etc). 

I have a feeling with my Income I will never make it to 5 conventional loans so it will be up to me to find an alternate.

I have no problem doing that as well.The tenant lease expires in within the next 100 days so I kept that in mind as well.I suppose the nature of my question puts me on the defensive but I must repeat I still haven't received rent for this month with a voice mail saying the tenant must have sent it to the wrong address and the check IS in the mail.

The director may prescribe rules for alternative and electronic record storage."