Real estate is an excellent avenue to help you achieve those goals, especially since it can create both passive income and long-term wealth.

That would be my first suggestion.As for real estate, much like what others have shared, it’s a long-term journey.

@Jake Baker  You should think about a rehab loan if you are going to buy and hold.

My focus is on providing either turnkey-style space for those interested in temporary, infrequent use or long-term leasing for business folks who require conference room space (or perhaps event space).  

Tenants are stable long term residents, and property is located in a desirable school district.

As a short-term rental property manager in Massachusetts, I charge a 20% co-hosting fee, which includes full-service management—guest communication, vendor coordination, cleaner oversight, and overall property operations.I've seen competitors charge anywhere from 10% to 30%, but lower-cost managers often cut corners, while higher-end services may not always justify the price.

thanksRyan  @Ryan RuppertShopify is a great platform for e-commerce, but it might not be the best fit for managing STRs in the long term.

The two are almost entirely different markets in terms of price points, returns, tenant quality, and overall investing strategy.

I have also been doing quite a bit of research on Loan's, tax consequences etc., and am working towards being a expert in this niche.  

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