There are plenty of cash-flowing markets here - especially in the STR space.I'm in Arizona and there is constant news about what is happening in Mexico with occasional charts of various cartels and what turf they are fighting over,  and mass graves that have been found of the "disappeared". 

You could look at “FIG” (fourplex investment group) I get ads from them occasionally. 

Maybe have a decent sized pool of cash to take care of the occasional roof repair or personal expense, but almost entirely in real estate?

Occasionally you might see commercial real estate companies put out analysis for different markets and different commercial segments. 

For the last 18 months or so there have been very few "deals" in my opinion so we have changed our approach and we are flipping and occasionally reselling with owner financing.  

However, it's perfect for remote workers or those who only need to commute occasionally.2.

I occasionally will get one and restore it as a labor of love, but they are all in very rough shape. 

Learn how to consistently hit singles and doubles, and don't be ashamed to take the occasional walk. 5 years is a very short time frame to go from no RE to financially free (although you may already have property, which is an awesome start). 

Occasionally, I will get an objection from an off-market homeowner that "might" sell saying...

And are potential guests interested in staying at a STR in a basement that can have occasional squeaky floors from time to time?