Which came first the live in 4plex or the cashflowing SF rentals?

[Christopher Ward]

So like many other starry eyed first time investors I have read and heard about I am looking to make my first real estate investment into a fourplex in which I will live in 1 unit and rent out the other 3. I am locked into my lease at my apartment for 8 more months so that will not be happening anytime in the immediate future but I am fairly certain that is the route I want to go. In the meantime however I have been hearing quite a bit about out of state, single family, turn-key rentals and have been wanting to maybe give these a try, as it is a much smaller investment and can get me started quicker. I know most of the pro's but only some of the cons to these turn key properties so I need to research this a little more.

My question is which one I should be focused on more? The turnkey properties since I can invest and get started with them now? Or the fourplex since it is going to be a much bigger and more important investment to my portfolio starting off? From a buying and leverage standpoint which one would benefit me more to buying first? I think if I purchase a cheaper turnkey property or 2 I may not look as lend-worthy (if that's a word lol) to banks and may get stuck with higher rates or be more likely to be denied if I already have a large loan or 2. Any and all opinions welcome!!

Thanks!