Hi Mark, it really becomes a matter of how motivated you are to hone the skill set of each category, and they have their similarities and unique characteristics.  

I have mine set up that way after a couple challenging first-timer experiences.Whatever you decide, I wish you good luck!

I inherited a unique home a few years ago, free and clear ( where I sort of live) on a large property for the area, and as they say, it has great bones.

However, you may want to relax in the 5-10 year timeframe.Another thing that is unique in real estate is that many real estate loans balloon between 5-10 years giving another reason to liquidate the fund.

Challenges?

That's a big one to know because there can be financing challenges if a certain percentage of units is owned by one owner. 

You can also look to attend a local real estate networking event and ask others who they are using.You have a unique situation as you are househacking which means you purchased an investment property in addition to a personal residence.

Tree people are a unique set. 

Looking around at different banks has presented quite the challenge, though not impossible.

Challenges?