One option for slightly more hands off real estate are syndications/funds. Allows you to buy geographically diverse properties to benefit from arbitrage and avoid any one market getting overpriced. Also allows you to get into multifamily, storage and commercial without crazy high minimums.
I use mlg capital, mainly because they've been around long enough to weather bad cycles. Everyone makes money in a bull real estate economy. There are others but definitely sure your due diligence. You do get some of the tax benefits that real estate provides, including depreciation and the ability to 1031 exchange at sale.
I can understand the aversion to crypto, though I think given the gains and the future, having a 1-5% allocation is a good hedge. While volatile, I feel a lot better in that space compared to an equities market that defies all reasonable metrics. If you do, read and consider a small investment in the "large caps". Btc/eth.
Hard money loans are another way to make money. It usually requires a decent amount of capital to get access and there is variable risk/lock up of your money but with construction booming, something to consider.
As always, do your own diligence, read, etc. This isn't financial advice....