Be sure to track your activities.

Additionally, my wife and I plan to retire in NC (still a few years out from that ; ) but we're actively planning and focusing our investment strategy in the Raleigh-Durham area.

He hasn't been active for a while, but look at his page - https://www.biggerpockets.com/users/scottroyalsmith 

Start small with manageable properties, mitigate risk with house hacking or partnerships, and stay active in the community.

I would also be aware of any state laws related to cryptocurrency that might be active in your market. 

Quote from @Tessa Booth:I try to get the appliances for some active flips or rentals during the sales..

Don, one little tidbit,  when I was very active buying courthouse steps, and pre foreclosures I would find that borrowers would pay on the second but not the first ..

The tahoe STR rental activity is down this year compared to the last 5.

Some deals just "work" from day 1 and everything falls into place.Others don't work out no matter what you do.I've done hundreds of them in my local market and would only sell if it was one of those doozy type deals.Funny thing is, a property I own next door might be fine.But for whatever reason the cursed property just isn't lol.If you are wanting to use the equity, then use it to "Gung Ho" and full time.Meaning, don't buy turnkey and use the capital to buy, fix and flip instead.Money makes money and being very hands on and active, you can get to where you want to be quicker.Just my opinion.Thanks 

I suspect 90% of those who take the classes to become an agent are not active within 2 years.