Leverage your construction skills for flips, start with smaller projects to minimize risk, and consider house hacking or long-term rentals for a steady income.

I know when it comes to many cities there are long permit processes and also there are specific air laws that go into each city.I would love to hear a story that goes over an experience pertaining to developing/rehabbing a property in the DC area. 

I wouldn't imaging the state where the entity is registered makes a big difference for most buying and selling purposes as long as you can provide all of the required documents for title purposes.

After years of focusing on my career and building financial stability, I’m ready to dive into real estate investing and start creating passive income and long-term wealth.My short-term goal is to purchase my first duplex or single family rental. 

TurnKey, Buy-and-holds, flips, or maybe long-term rentals?

I do this all the time, as long as you or the property can cover it monthly you're good. 

Malibu allows it but requires a 15% "hotel tax" on the gross revenue.I would recommend looking out of state or underwrite the property as a long term rental in the event laws change.

Wholesaling is a great low cost way to make a lot of short-term cash, but it does not build long-term wealth.

I was imagining responsible car-free tenants, as I was one myself for a long time. 

It doesn't take long to learn how to spot a good deal.6.