My fervor and desire to jump into the game and become financially free was quickly deterred by people telling me I needed to get through school and start making money before I should get into REI.

@Michael Whiting, There are a couple of ways to do this depending on your desires and desired direction.1.

I own 4 pieces of property but I'm going through a divorce. 2 of them will be sold and I'm attempting to keep 2-- some VERY desirable land and a STR. 

Consider elements together with way of life choices, location and marketplace analysis, property condition and protection desires, property control, and legal and regulatory concerns.

To flip, you pretty much need to be in the most desirable areas.

Real estate is a very sought-after investment class right now, and as such the supply/demand picture compresses cap rates to reflect how desirable it is.The question is, is this as good as it gets? 

@Ken M.Iḿ glad you all really have steam left to engage these one and done posters, but I have little desire.

The inherited house is in a coastal town but I'm hesitant to do a short term rental as it needs quite a few updates (kitchen and bath) to make it desirable enough for a STR and I have no capital to do that.

While I do not personally have a contact in KC, I'd recommend using BiggerPockets' Find an Agent tool.Its a FREE service for BP members like yourself who are looking to expand your network and find local experts.Here, you'll be connected with an investor-friendly with knowledge/experience in your desired location(s). 

I give new agents or those desiring to get into real estate lists to call and then buy the deals they find. it works well.