This is all very new to me, but I started listening to the BP podcast about a month ago and realized I have a strong interest in real estate investing.

All said, you will find many folks within these forums that are strong promoters of self-directed IRAs.

I was mainly thinking about the effects of putting an entire strong cashflow back into the mortgage.

Personally I house hacked my first place - a 2 family - and I cannot recommend that route strongly enough. 

I am optimistic on this team that the exit will still be strong.

Population is growing and the job market is strong (major employers developing like Intel, Amazon, Meta, etc.)

I strongly believe that with 100% digital collections done via Baselane (including security deposit collection) and it's banking service is such a risky value proposition for investors like you and me, as at some point these type of situations will always happen ... and no one else is on the hook other that you as the owner / landlord.

Is there strong demand for high-end rentals in your area?

If your calendar is packed, this indicates you are in a strong market and will quickly make ROI AND you wont have to worry about this issue again. 

The idea you can put 5% down and cash flow and have strong appreciation is very rare.