IMO, only worth it if you have access to enough capital to scale your efforts, though.Can't be compared.To do well in the lending game, in addition to controlling your risk and what others have mentioned, you need... 

You can utilize hard money for a BRRR or flip to get into the game. 

I am looking to get into the real estate game early and learn as much as possible, especially about house hacking and possibly short-term rentals.

Join online communities like Facebook Groups and BiggerPockets Forums to engage with experienced investors.

It does not matter whether you are starting a real estate business, restaurant, car wash, or amazon commerce business - the lender will first look at you and your partner and how much skin you have in the game, your experience and the risk of the loan not getting paid. 

It's part of participation trophy society where people get socially rewarded for just being in the game, but that shouldn't apply to real estate.

Explore out-of-state markets like the Midwest and Southeast, use local property managers, and join online investor groups.

Networking is key—try connecting with local investors, joining real estate meetups, or hopping into online groups to learn more and build relationships.

Do you provide for online rent payment?

@Tyler GilpinGo online and check the local housing authority for that city.