Best policy would be to have no equity in a positive cash flow property. 

Thanks Jo-Ann and Donald for the positive vibes. 

I'm being relocated out of state and I was going to rent out my primary, but found out my housing allowance will be voided if I do, so essentially I have to keep it empty if I want to get it...and I definitely want to get it as it will easily pay for the place and my new place.But here's my situation, I'd like to donate the use of the property to my church to use as a mission house.

If the market turns on you, don't expect 2% rent growth or any positive rent growth at all.

A good agent will be involved in the local real estate agent community and let people know what you are looking for, this exact scenario has put me in the position to buy many off market deals.  

He's been a very positive influence thus far from my end. 

Aside from simple diversification, I'm excited about the other positives about the RE asset class specifically, and I'm just soaking up information, looking to learn and network with people in general here on BP and specifically here in the SD market.

It is a LOT easier and you will eventually find yourself in a position where you watch others that MUST work while you have a lot of freedom to do other things. 

My husband and I will be finally in a position to buy a house here in January.

My husband and I will be finally in a position to buy a house here in January.