You need income to qualify for loans, you can learn how to manage rentals well (something most landlords never do), you will figure out which communities/properties make the best investments, can earn an above-average paycheck, and may even find some investment properties before they hit the market.

Personally, I invest in properties in C-Class neighborhoods in my market (East Linden and Southern Hilltop), and they’ve been cash-flowing well so far.

Engage an investor-focused realtor/broker in your preferred market (this is not a residential realtor) and start 'tire kicking' the market and properties that fit your criteria.

I'm also concerned about the real estate market as a whole.

Found it through a broker on the market.

This strategic flip leveraged our market expertise and efficient deal structuring to achieve a quick and profitable transaction.

@Todd Anderson totally agree on finding a mentor in the market to learn from.

I Can only realistically get $1600-$1700 a month renting my house based on the market.

Or find a deal first then market it to buyers, then offer on the house and create an agreement with the seller & buyer?

Great point about different states and markets having different laws about using evictions as a reason for denial!