As we are treading lightly considering the markets volatility we want to be without loose ends come time to make offers.

REITs are offer decent current income if you can stomach the volatility, but are less attractive these days in the midst of covid related uncertainty.It all just depends on how much risk you are willing to accept.

So comparing the returns you can make to a compound interest calculation (which very rarely accounts for the volatility and fee drag of the market) with it invested in the stock market is not even a comparison.

Volatility makes it more difficult to get a good market pulse when entering. 

REITs also have enormous price volatility, which can wipe out a few years of dividend payments very easily.I don't know anyone who has become financially free by investing in REITs or any other stocks.

Don't borrow more then 25% or it's risky as markets volatile. 

The volatility of the stock market, the management fees and the lack of control over your cash, are all just cause to look elsewhere. 

E.I during COVID non-liquified retirement assets could not be counted in your net worth due to the high volatility of the markets.

You owned shares during the most risky and volatile portion of the investment.

I have been listening to BiggerPockets for over a year now and feel like I have a nice little chunk of capital saved to get the ball rolling - however, given the volatility of this current market and my inexperience, I'm looking for advice for how to begin investing.