Passive syndication investment vs other REI options

[Scott Price]

Before I pose my question, let me start off by saying that I completely understand every RE deal/strategy is different and each comes with its own pros/cons, as well as your own personal goals/desires, etc, etc, etc.

So in a very generalized sense, if a would-be real estate investor has the option to start investing in SF/small MF RE, or being a passive investor in a larger syndication deal... which one typically is better (ie better returns on your investment)?

The reason I ask, it seems there is a natural progression to start with SF, move up to small MF, and then larger MF, etc. But for someone who is starting out and has the options to start down any one of these routes... would one typically get a bigger bang for ones buck in the larger syndication deals? Especially if the syndication deals tend to also employ a similar BRRR type strategy.

Any seasoned opinions are welcome as I am really weighing my options.

Thanks!