But it also sometimes contrasts with the idea of treating it like a strict zero-emotion business. sure, you might be able to save some money by hiring it out. and you might not be 100% satisfied with the finished product.

In other words, I think renting removes emotion from the equation and gives me more flexibility (over purchasing a property, living in it, and renting it out in the future) to save more income and find a great cash flowing deal.  

In some ways I enjoy reading older books as you can truly understand timeless values/concepts versus temporary trends.

The investments you make are somewhere on a risk spectrum which correlated to your risk of losing the house.There are other sources of cash: bank of Mom and Dad, begging money from friends and family, asking for salary advance from your employer, getting a second job, getting a mortgage, getting a personal loan, getting a hard money loan... all of them come with different economic, time, and psychological/emotional costs.

I'm in a similar position to you (I'm a healthcare professional, graduated with a nice chunk of student loans, and have a decent income and am now looking to invest).Choosing whether to invest or pay down student loans involves two competing thoughts: an analytical one and an emotional one. 

How have you managed these difficult reoccurring emotions and made RE investing work for you?

Also, rentals take a beating, and it can be very emotionally draining to see what tenants do to a house you love.I would look for 2 Class B rentals that I purchased with the intent of having them be investments. 

You making a classic mistake as an investor...becoming emotionally involved.

Stress-testing your finances and emotions in the case of a job loss, recession or other unpleasant stuffIs your wife/partner on the same page?

I specifically tell and have written in my leases there is absolutely NO subleasing or AirBnB or any sort of temporary hotelier rental allowed.