The main benefit for VA over an FHA loan is 0% down required and you don’t pay monthly mortgage insurance, which can add up to quite a bit in the long run.

Roth IRAs cannot be transferred to Solo 401k plans.A few other Solo 401k benefits: Compared to an IRA, Solo 401k contributions limits are roughly ten times higher.There is no custodial requirement for the 401k.You don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control.There is a built in-Roth component whereas IRAs are either traditional or Roth, not both.A spouse can also participate in the same Solo 401k plan.The Solo 401k has additional tax benefits over an IRA when investing into real estate using leverage.

He was telling me he is looking to sell because he wants to move his mother-in-law out of state(Which he already has) with a relative that will take care of her, and he is looking to sell the home because he does not want to take care of the property anymore.

I discipline myself to read a chapter or two on books related to investment every day, except for Sundays.

In my area, law students and housing authorities send "actors" out to walk properties and fill out applications in order to see who violates these laws and they file hefty fines regularly.The benefit of defining your criteria is that it makes it really easy to decide who you rent to, no more comparing applicants. 

If you're self-employed, the Solo 401k will provide many benefits over a self-directed IRA: Compared to an IRA, Solo 401k contributions limits are roughly ten times higher.There is no custodial requirement for the 401k.You don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control.There is a built in-Roth component whereas IRAs are either traditional or Roth, not both.A spouse can also participate in the same Solo 401k plan.The Solo 401k has additional tax benefits over an IRA when investing into real estate using leverage.The penalties for prohibited transactions are less severe, though it's best not to utilize this benefit :)

There are more benefits to leveraging your money, which means putting a percentage down and financing the remainder. 

What are the benefits - and pains - of landlords renting out a property individually by room (not as Airbnb)?

I doubt your quad, with it's present appearance, will benefit significantly from exterior cosmetics.

I argue rules that limit my ability to speak are neither reasonable, nor related to the use of the property.