It's always a good feeling to see others who have transitioned from a solid career to some level of real estate investing.

I could do more financially but I don't want to be over whelmed with phone calls again and not have the time and energy to do good follow up.

This one is a little too complicated for my level of investing right now.

My husband and I have left our successful medical device sales positions to take our lives and careers to the next level.

You'll also find that even major cities in Texas have predatory dealing ordinances with real estate, it's also addressed at the state level. 

Curious what the average energy cost to run a boiler vs a furnace.

If you are a lawyer, high level executive, or something else that pays well but takes most of your time/concentration, then I think passive investing is a great deal. 

Avg 80+ units and mid level hotel cap 6 % and better.

It's a good price point for entry-level landlords and creating turnkey properties can become a lucrative business for you down the road if you learn it now.I would tell your family it's risky but the risk is backed by real estate and the worst case scenario is that only 50% of their money may be returned - come prepared you're asking for their money so they have the right to question and examine all of your ideas and assumptions. 

Heating a home is killer and in the midwest it's crazy humid in the summer so your gas and energy costs are always high.