I asked when the other person will retire.  

That person will be able to tell you what you can do and following that plan will give you peace of mind about your further investing strategy.

Gradually scale by researching high-growth markets, partnering with experienced investors, and exploring financing options like SBA loans.

What you CAN do is partner up with someone experienced and split the deal.

It’s important to recognize that your landlord likely isn’t thinking about selling the property right now, especially given their personal circumstances.

I'll let others chime in on their experiences, but from a motivational perspective, I think attending live events and getting the "conference high" is something that only happens through in-person connections and being in the same room with investors who are eagerly pursuing their real estate/financial goals. 

They are all under my personal name.

Overall I would personally consider how I can still grow with the freedom that I have focusing on my real estate.

I personally like the buy-and-hold strategy and we help clients who share this long-term, wealth building mindset. 

. =) It's literally the most transparent and traceable transaction medium mankind has ever seen lolThe transaction can be traced, but not the person.