I'm a workaholic, and although my business is doing well, and I can bring in money for deals, I hope to be able to shift my focus to real estate to have more time with family, residual income, and a sustainable future.We have experience with renting, both good and bad. 

At his current rate, he should have sufficient funds for a downpayment by the time he is 10 {if his interest sustains that long}.Of course, he cannot legally enter into a contract (and hence purchase real estate or place a mortgage) until he is 18, so financing will likely be via the Bank of Dad.Perhaps in another 5-years, I'll have the same story to tell :-)

What will signal sustained changes in the market?

I too am curious as to what kind of cashflow you're getting to sustain off of it?

The foundation was also heavy (full basement open to the back).Because of the boulders and the construction of the house we sustained pretty minor damage overall.

I’ve lived on my current budget for several years (essentially living like a grad student) and know my living situation is comfortable enough and paying this amount is sustainable for me. 

With this strategy we believe we can sustain ourselves through real estate down cycles.2.

Once I got to about 10+ units it started to be more self-sustaining.

I'm not in a hurry, so your (and your husband's) thoughts resonated with me.  

Have you considered the possibility of the str market slowing, and if the property would be sustainable as a ltr?