You can see this in the stock market every time as well.Irrespective of that, it's something I have said and seen for a long time: more and more people need to rent (vs being able to buy themselves), for a variety of resons.

They sell for less than a single family home but they sell better than a townhome with an HOA.If the home fits into the neighborhood and is well maintained, it could be a desirable property.

I'm typically very conservative in my investments, but to make the 20 or 25% downpayment, I don't want to sell stocks or borrow from my 401k.1) have you ever taken a "personal loan" from a bank to help fund a downpayment? 

I just have hard time seeing 3-5K sitting in a bank savings account losing money YoY, but I guess anything outside of that like a CD either locks up the money, stocks, bonds, mutual funds have risk, and crowdfunding also.Thanks for the input, this is why I really like posting on BP, multiple views and things I might be overlooking.

As a property manager, when I am asked these questions by a potential owner here is what I say:A good property manager will ensure the property condition is maintained (actually make visits or have visits performed).  

The tenant originally stated he had gambling issues and today when he called he said he had money invested in the USA stock market which 'is taking a long time to clear' this seems like an unlikely story and another ploy to extend the eviction process.

Not only does the mortgage require that I maintain adequate insurance, but for my own sanity I wish to have adequate insurance. 

Try to maintain control of everything yourself.  

You also should interview the owners and find out how much it costs to maintain it? 

See following for a list of lenders. https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/3441/51027-nonrecourse-loan-debt-for-self-directed-solo-401k-investmentAnd following are the similarities and differences between the solo 401k and the self-directed IRA.The Self-Directed IRA and Solo 401k Similarities Both were created by congress for individuals to save for retirement;Both may be invested in alternative investments such as real estate, precious metals tax liens, promissory notes, private company shares, and stocks and mutual funds, to name a few;Both allow for Roth contributions;Both are subject to prohibited transaction rules;Both are subject to federal taxes at time of distribution;Both allow for checkbook control for placing alternative investments;Both may be invested in annuities;Both are protected from creditors;Both allow for nondeductible contributions;Both are prohibited from investing in assets listed under I.R.C. 408(m); andNeither may be invested in your own business.