As someone mentioned, the only thing passive about real estate investing is the tax treatment. 

@Emily Gowen so as you pointed out you would not have to do a 1031 exchange on your current home to avoid the capital gains tax and coupled with what Dave Foster pointed out I think, speaking from experience you would have a high likelihood of success. 

To transition to multi-family properties, research landlord-friendly states like Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and Indiana with favorable eviction laws, lower taxes, and higher rental demand.

Some homes even come with tax breaks or city funding to help cover the costs.

Unlike banks, which offer limited loan options, brokers have access to a wide network of lenders, including niche and non-traditional financing sources.Here’s what they do:Assess your financial situation to determine your borrowing power.Compare multiple loan products to find the most favorable terms.Negotiate rates and terms with lenders on your behalf.Guide you through the application process, ensuring you meet all requirements.Example: Suppose you have a lower credit score or unconventional income sources.

Check with your municipality about how property taxes will change when you buy the place.

Current rent…,,,,Alternate rent……..If you bought monthly PI, ins, prop tax, maintenance, etc………Your cashflow available on top of your current rent. 

Line Item Fee Collected Rents 10% of All Collected Rents New Tenant Search & Onboarding $500 Business Hour Service Calls $80/hour + Materials Cost + Tax After Hour Service Calls $110/hour + Materials Cost + Tax HVAC Cleaning & InspectionGutter CleaningSpring/Fall Exterior CleanupSeasonal Mowing & Weed TrimmingSeasonal Snow PlowingGeneral Contractor Vendor Cost + 10% Oversight Fee

So my question is, if you were in my shoes, where would you start if you had $150 cash with good credit?

Overall, the tax benefits and appreciation alone keep me interested in staying with it more than the cash flow itself.