Would you buy them a gift card or something?

Collect full rent and if he wants to return some of it to you he can using annual gift limits.So nothing wrong with either thing. 

It's one thing to compromise by being a few blocks further from your favorite coffee shop, it's another to not feel safe in your home.I would use a list service or the public property records to target 3- and 4-unit properties in neighborhoods you like.

Husband and I don’t have a property yet and was gifted some down payment from family.

Treat your tenants honestly and fairly, maintain the home, stay out of their business.I've seen many Landlords give their tenants gifts, rent reductions, free rent for Christmas, and other concessions to "keep them happy" and keep them longer.

House hacking is one of my favorite ways to get started in real estate investing.

My absolute favorite syndicator allows you to make an investment and participate in a 1031 exchange into their next deal.Best of luck to you!

My favorite part was how speculation of San Francisco’s demise began back in 1874 (post gold rush.) 

(I've uploaded pictures of the progress so far)We plan on painting the cabinets as they are still in good condition, we just don’t like the orange/golden oak look, will also be adding hardware and backsplash that was gifted to us.

The BRRRR strategy is becoming my one of favorite strategies to begin with and I wanted to know if that strategy can be using with the VA loan?