If they have paid off property (especially if the investor is much older), they probably have a healthy stock portfolio as well :) Debt has worked for me, and I'm glad it works for you too!

Private funding from a relative may provide flexible terms and reduced financial risk, but formal agreements are necessary, and interest paid is deductible for you but taxable for them.Traditional investment property loans offer stability and tax benefits like deductible interest and property taxes but require larger down payments.

I think it would be financial suicide to give up a 500k a year job that you know how to do and is secure to launch into thinking your going to replace it with rental income.. unless your sitting on 5 mil plus in  cash with no debt.

You would only pay taxes on all passive investments in a traditional SDIRA at distribution, unless you have a mortgage, then the portion of the income derived because of the mortgage will be subject to UDFI (unrelated debt finance income) which will trigger UBIT (unrelated business income tax). 

Key Check gave me credit and debt load, which was surprising, as most other methods people don't share.

Developing strong financial and business acumen is also crucial for success as an investor, so that’s another area where you could focus your efforts if getting a license doesn’t align with your plans.I’m here as a resource—feel free to reach out if there’s anything I can do to help!

Retain a cash reserve to cover vacancies or downturns, and align with your long-term goals by consulting a financial advisor.

@Isaac Terry Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

If you do have to move because of a job, you would be safest (in my opinion, i am not giving legal advice or financial advice), i would sell that property to ensure that you did not just purchase with the goal of moving out early and taking advantage of lower rates and lower down payments for purchasing your home as a primary residence. 

we did the first 3 in a 18 month period we used internal funds so no debt.. these were 350k to 400k all in projects.. so U need cash to be a spec builder or you need investors if you dont have cash..