The ultimate goal here is to retire as soon as possible and not wait to grow equity over 5-10 years to be able to retire. 

I saw how fast the city was growing and decided to make the jump.

Hi Saju,Well it is an exciting market with lots of future developments happening, all aligned with the popular Dubai 2040 vision.As for how the market is for US investors, there is no local tax on capital gains, or tax on rental income.

Grow a pair and dont take any crap. 

I figure as the area is growing and there are more people moving to the area it will increase the values.

We just bought a house in a highly desired older neighborhood.The owner agreed to owner finance it with 5k down over 5 years at 0% interest.We did put some money into the house to fix it up some.The rental income will cover the payments.Always ask for owner financing, the answer might surprise you.Work with money partners to do more deals.Join your local Real Estate Club and learn new techniques and grow your network.

You can grow your network of not only other investors who could potentially become partners if you bring them a good deal, but you could meet real estate agents there who may have clients looking for partners on deals.

Now I am interested in growing a little into the single family realm in a neighborhood closer to my home.  

Great tools that get updated regularly.I am on the lending side of things and would be happy to hop on a call with you anytime to discuss financial strategies and help answer any questions you may have about nearly any loan product available to help you on your journey, even if they are not products my capital partners offer.We are all here to help you learn and grow.

I would suggest changing your mindset from how you can save a few hundred bucks to how you can grow your income.