I'd also be working at getting a better job (thinking of taking on an apprenticeship), I'm just curious if this min. wage theory can work and would like to establish myself in a town I like first, rather than having my career dictate where I live.

You're young, you've got food and housing and a free apprenticeship, go for it!

Not sure why our current society thinks they should all have success and become rich day one in RE ... and skip the apprenticeship that most of us have gone through.I guess its just the internet age and access too to much information ... much of it white noise.

I'm now looking for an apprenticeship.

There is no formal education, apprenticeship, licence, or certification required ... very much unlike an attorney, engineer, plumber, carpenter, electrician,  or GC.  

At this time, I am hoping to grow in a niche area and am not looking for apprenticeship programs that require payment.

Other wise BP would have no members if there was not the dream of real estate rich's.Most that have succeeded in the industry has to put in some apprenticeship and or had good paying jobs and the discipline to not trash their credit and save some money so they can operate..

You need to do an apprenticeship under another appraiser.  

Dave Ramsey sells something I am sure maybe his book or other items.Kiosaki we know has a travelling guru show .Montalongo  ,,,  The flip vegas folks,  Than Merrill   all these started with their TV flipping show then moved on to Education business for all these newbies that want to get instant success in the business without putting in their apprenticeship.. so they sell a dream .. same dream that is sold on BP only this one just cost you thousands of hours of listening but the messages are all the same...

I have realistic expectations and know that I may not find an apprenticeship given that I work full time and support a family.