It's great to hear that you have a passion for real estate and have been able to build a successful investment portfolio while managing your other responsibilities. Taking control of your time and energy is crucial when pursuing your goals, and it sounds like you have been doing just that.
As you consider your next steps, it's important to weigh the potential upsides and risks of different options. Being a real estate agent can offer more stability and less deal-by-deal risk compared to being a general contractor (GC). Real estate agents have the potential for a steady income stream from commissions, while GCs may face more uncertainty with project timelines and budgets. However, being a GC could also offer more control over your time and income potential if you're able to build a successful business.
While it's important to follow your passion, it's also important to acknowledge that it may not always lead to immediate financial success. It's great that you've been able to build a successful investment portfolio, but it may take some time to see the same level of success in a real estate career. It's important to have a realistic plan in place to support yourself financially while pursuing your goals.
Partnering with someone could be a good option if you're looking to complement your skills and resources, but it's important to carefully consider the partnership agreement and ensure that your goals align. Ultimately, your goal of buying more rentals is a great one, and it's important to choose a career path that supports that goal in the long term. Good luck with your decision-making process!