The vast majority of your wealth gain in real estate will be by holding properties long term and the appreciation/principal paydown will slowly but surely help you become wealthy.For 90% plus of people out there who are looking to start, house hacking is the best way to go.

With your real estate background, you’re already off to a great start.

I started researching and then bought in 2021-2022 then paused to stabilize and get a better lay of the land.

@Michael VelezHouse hacking is a great way to start investing, as it helps you reduce living expenses while building equity.

The biggest hurdle you'll have to overcome is accepting breakeven or negative cash flow at the start. 

I started investing in RE when I was 26.

Then plan a date to actively start looking to buy.

I both personally invest in real estate and help others gets started/expand their portfolios in various Midwest/midsouth markets.What I do with my kids: My wife and I have 2 of our rentals that are on the same street, with a home in between them.

As Andrew said, starting with a house-hack is a great way to get started.

My agent was a very nice older lady, but no idea about investing, it all worked out and once the first rent checks started coming in started gaining some confidence.