Makes sense, and I agree.To the investor, I do think there's 'different' exposure than a buy and hold model, and I'd even make the case it is 'larger' exposure, as a small price swing to the resale market has a larger impact on the liquidity of an investor, than does the same percentage price swing, say of rents. 

I looked into maybe applying for a HELOC and start with flipping to build up my liquid assets or going the hard money route.

The recession in 2008 reduced the savings of many, and stagnant wages in recent years means that many seniors will be heading into retirement with less financial backing.Many of them are planning to rent to increase their access to liquid assets that they’ll use for things other than housing.

She is definitely at a stage where she should probably liquidate and relax.

I would not recommend liquidating your 401k and going all-in on real estate.

I don't know enough about DSTs to comment on them, but if they are reasonably liquid they could be a nice place to stash cash while you continue to shop.

The hard money lender is basing your pre approval/Proof of Funds on credit and liquid assets and attaches to you, not the property or properties. 

Again, we have ~$30k available in cash or liquid accounts in the Self Directed Traditional IRA, in addition to that asset that produces ~$1,100 / mo in income. 

I have $60k in liquid cash assets, I have a duplex in Bay View that I could refinance and pull some equity out of, and I have $110k in a Roth IRA if I was looking to borrow additional funds.

@Philip BriskinIf it only makes sense as an AirBNB then I would make sure you are buying it undermarket so you can liquidate without a loss.