But I get it if you can invest 500.00 U certainly cant buy whole notes or secured positions with such a small amount. becomes a personal decisions make 7.5% with risk of losing it all or buy T bills for about 5% with zero risk.. its up to the individual investors.

It also takes a personal guarantee from the borrower.  

For my personal investment journey I have done flips, buy and hold, BRRR, and wholesale.

Would a handyman be the right person to show the apt?

In your case it is/was a relationship business working with finances and tenants.

Happy to chat about my personal experience if you have any questions!

This has been the case for me personally.

If I was in your shoes I would gently let that person know what you plan on doing with the place and how much you're going to be charging etc...

Personal preference though 

House hacking will also give you some personal "property management" experience.