Rental property is quite different between Commercial & Residential.
A buddy of mine has done very well with Comm, regardless of the economy, for the past 40+ years including currently.
It does require due diligence in checking the property's history (EPA) and whether a city/county/state actually owns or has some land rights or encumbrances.
Res is more problematic with renter's rights, and for me, being a "control enthusiast", it was frustrating when a tenant didn't take care of the property as I did.
It was more frustrating because I'd moved to CA and the Res property was in HI; couldn't exactly stop by. I had a good deal with a manager but in the end made no money, partly due to a market value drop, when I decided to sell.
My buddy's been stung on a Res rental, but has made a LOT on Comm, with very few problems.
His son has also done very well leasing & subletting Comm properties.