I’m wondering if $23k of my own liquidated funds is reasonable to start looking for an investment property?

My recommendation is still going to be the same as I've put in other threads; buy 1.25x DSCR in a very good area or up & coming area of a very good city ideally through BRRR(you'll keep 10-30% of the capital in the deal likely), invest ideally 60-80% of your downpayment(no less than 33%) in a debt note fund that matures in 2-4 years.

If you are looking to fix and flip, just make sure you look for a 12 month term, non-dutch interest on the rehab funds (this means you do not pay interest on the rehab money until you use it), no prepayment penalty, and avoid any lenders that escrow your payments at closing.

Not following the requirements (within Seattle city limits will likely have additional rules and regulations) opens the seller up to liability.Additionally, the seller always has the option of offering "cash for keys" arrangement but be sure that no funds change hands until after the property is vacated and locks are changed.John

I'd go for the best location, ideally, but without a strong compromise on your funds.

i'd check your local laws and guidlines, its illegal here in the city of columbus to deny someone based on source of funding. 

Basically you stay working there and rollover funds into another qualified plan.   

Private money lending is a great way for real estate investors to access fast, flexible funding.

I save up every 3-5 years to buy 1 property 1.25x DSCRd, ideally through BRRR, and buy about 20% of my downpayment worth in a high-rate not fund--high rate as in a 2-5% above prime but not this egregious triple prime super high risk nonsense).

You know, I’ve had a few moments where I’ve scratched my head wondering if I was getting too cozy with my home equity, but pulling out those funds for a strategic investemnt has, more often than not, led me to some pretty sweet opportunities.