He's literally playing games, watching movies, and complaining about boredom.

Paul - I'm in Raleigh and am also new to the RE game. 

I am a little embarrassed to say what my end game is because it is beyond me at this moment in life, but here goes. 

Clearly defined goals, with an end game in mind4.

In general, a more transitory environment where we more often than not, run into the “professional” tenants who know how to game the system.

I want to play this game for the long-term and not looking for short-term returns.My portfolio should benefit from appreciation, depreciation, tax-free cashing-out, leverage using low interest rates (from #1), cashflow to cover the expenses.Syndicate & CF seem to be ruled out since I can't control the asset, cannot leverage it when I want to and there's no collateral on my investment.What is a good way to start?

In this case I would not mind putting a large down payment since you are playing the long game, and with risks growing everyday of a sell-off or bubble, you will be able to CYA in the worst scenario.

@Nabeel M.Normally, I would agree with @Wesley W. about not getting involved in tenant drama, but this, as he also indicated, is one of this instances where tech can change the game.

What's your why for doing real estate, what's your end game. 

The name of the game is to MAXIMIZE cashflow!