We have the means to self fund two to four properties off the bat. 

Thank you very muchJaša This is how traditional banks, private credit funds and anyone in the lending space works.The challenge you will have is finding someone to give you money at X%. 

Quote from @Scott Tennell: For real estate investors who have worked with private money lenders, what strategies have you found most effective in structuring deals to ensure both parties are protected and the funding process runs smoothly? 

Where as same investor buys a stock or mutual fund that tanks and they just chalk it up.. to me there is an irrational thought process that you cant lose money on RE..

He kept in touch with local contractors, and one tipped him off about a homeowner who ran out of funds mid-renovation.

And, well managed institutional 1031 Exchange Qualified Intermediaries will have already evaluated the applicable risks, addressed the critical issues and implemented appropriate safeguards to protect your 1031 Exchange funds to ensure the successful completion of your 1031 Exchange transaction.

Quote from @Victor Lin: Hey all, I have been living in Seattle for a little over 2.5 years now and I like to think I know the North Seattle area pretty well and would like to finally begin my REI journey here.I am looking to connect with other new or experienced investors in the Seattle area to mutually learn off each other and ultimately just gain more knowledge.

Also-  Have you considered investing in a note fund.

@Maria JeanetteHere are some of the downsides of putting real estate into a self directed IRA or 401k.No tax deductions: You can’t claim deductions for property taxes, mortgage interest, depreciation, repairs, improvements and other property-related expenses.Property expenses: All expenses, repairs, and maintenance costs must be paid with IRA or 401k funds.

It will also require extensive networking to raise funds from other, legally, to buy at scale.Recommend your plan be more realistic with a goal of 10 years for your real estate to be generating enough cash to live off - and even that may be a bit optimistic.How to grow?