You might also look into learning about BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat), a popular method for scaling a portfolio.Network Locally: Engaging with local investors and attending meetups in markets like Dallas or Fort Worth can provide insights and connections that are invaluable.You'll find that momentum grows quickly.

These syndication can provide an 8%+ cash-on-cash return - providing investors monthly cash flow - and a 15-20% IRR over the length of the project.

Many of the estate properties are located on lakes or rivers providing unique recreational activities.

Real estate has always been in the back of my mind as a way to increase our wealth and provide for our family.

Based on the numbers you provided, these are well above the debt service coverage ratio of 1.25 hence from a lenders perspective, this is loanable.

Investing this amount in passive deals might not provide immediate income, and you could end up waiting years to see returns (similar case in most investments.) 

Or add an extra garage.  

I used a property manager (before I was one) for (1) time & headache savings and (2) the value the property managers provide by economies of scale (marketing, discounts with vendors, etc.).

If you like impacting the nation by providing affordable housing you can really put people in houses here.

It can be trained to provide an initial analysis but I agree, nothing replaces expertise and sound underwriting.