You can also trade up these properties quicker into other properties where you can force equity.

This will consist of finding a good deal that requires some work and is below market value, and making sure your contractor is accurate with the budget and executes the work as stated in the contract.

I have my real estate license and am also an occupational therapist by trade- but truly I don't want to be in healthcare OR to help others to buy/sell- just want to get more properties under my own belt!

In the multi unit buildings I put on lease "Each tenant shares responsibility for removing snow and salting on both walkways and sidewalk infront of property" and I have them initial before we execute lease.

@Jonathan Blanco, I'm and investor and a licensed mortgage broker so I've been on both sides of this conversation.I would look for a lender that (1) listens to you and understands your strategy and needs (hint: it's not always money), (2) has experience working with clients executing your strategy and brings more to the table than just cash - be it advice, relationships, deal-team partners, etc., (3) gives you viable options and explains the pros and cons of each option and (4) you enjoy interacting with - this should be a relationship, not a transaction.Once you find a few lenders like this (and you should have relationships with more than one), then you can start comparing rates and fees.

On the 2nd I hired all licensed trades but separately.

I went from Teaching to Coaching college basketball to executive recruiting  (headhunting). 

Here's why:Deep Discount Buying OpportunitiesAfter a period of aggressive rate hikes, many real estate assets are trading 20-30% below peak prices seen in 2021-2022.

As for your Index funds, if you were trading indices such as SPX, you would have the favorable tax treatment accorded to §1256 Contacts:  60% of gains are Long Term Capital Gains, and 40% are Short Term capital gains.

Then you can trade up to another property where you can force equity.