I have been purchasing rental houses in another state for 6 years. My watch out for people is be very conservative with your expected returns so you dont get yourself in financial trouble. If you get $1,000 in rent, target to actually see $550-$600 after all expenses (taxes (income AND property), inspections, licenses, maintenance and management fees). Perhaps less if you have a mortgage. Tax benefits are good, especially if you are in brackets that really dont allow many other deductions.

Find a good team if you dont plan on managing them yourself. I am completely hands off other than approving expenses >$500. Consider holding title under an LLC for your personal financial security and DO NOT co-mingle personal and business expenses.

I have a low tolerance for risk in this sense, so nothing I say is a rule. Just be knowledgeable of the potential consequences of the risk (e.g. dont be dumb and lose your primary residence!).

This is a fair approach as well. Goes to show there are several solutions based on level of investment and risk tolerance.