Getting "Serious" About REI in 2022

[Steph S.]

Hi BP forums, 
I've been trying to learn more about REI over the past year. I'm very interested in real estate investing so as not to have to worry as much about financial security/retirement, but also to get out of the 9-5 rate race. I'm not looking for luxury and opulence (though of course, that would be nice), but 1) to be able to travel (better once we establish a new normal with covid), 2) quit my 9-5 job to be able to work on passion projects/non-profit work 3) feel comfortable having children in the future and not worrying about that financial burden and 4) establishing generational wealth.

I live in Denver, which feels like a HCoL ara, especially compared to my hometown in Georgia. Long story short: credit score is around 760, about $20k gifted for down payment use only, and about $12000 in debt at an avg of 6.44%, which I'm actively working to pay off more than the min. I'm sure there are additional facets needed to give a complete picture, however...

Who would I talk to to see if it make sense financially and they also understand REI ? Any suggestions for someone in the Denver area? In your opinion, am I in a position to join one of the many REI bootcamps that are out there?

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. 

TYIA