Not saying there's any right or wrong answer, but I've had friends go through something similar only to realize real estate wasn't for them as soon as they hit their first snag... and on goes the cycle of excitement --> giving up --> something new --> etc. 

This is not true for other expenses.Property taxes, insurance, and utilities are ongoing.

Specifically, leaks from every imaginable source; termite and carpenter ant attacks; poor drainage of waste lines AND exterior gutters/downspouts; safety hazards such as ongoing use of extension cords covered with rugs; grease buildups on range hoods; blocked venting of furnace, water heater, AC; and much more.

Houses have ongoing expenses.

This includes not just the down payment but also ongoing expenses, potential vacancy periods, and how your investment aligns with your long-term financial objectives.3.

In the interim and regardless of ultimate retirement plans, we plan on going the airbnb, depreciation/bonus depreciation, route with this property. 

There are always unintended consequences.We will have ongoing supply shortages at high prices and business margins will be squeezed causing considerable layoffs.

It's easy to obtain, costs very little, and doesn't require additional, on-going effort to maintain.

He was impressed and drove me to an area that he thought would be good for business that I didn’t even plan on going too!

I personally don't have any hands on experience with these types of loans yet, but I most likely plan on going this route as well soon as I begin investing, but of course do your own research as well.Hope this helps!