So if you were in my position, how would you use creative financing to build up to 10 properties in the next 3 years and not sell stock or touch retirement? 

It takes time to build up those 5 star reviews and get the traction.Like @John Underwood said, be on both VRBO and AirBNB.

You can use their 7 day free trial and just build up your list, and after your 7 days is done, use TruePeopleSearch.com to find phone numbers of the people you identified on Propstream. 

While building your credit, here’s what to focus on:Learn: Keep reading, connect with others, and maybe find a mentor.Save: Build up your down payment and reserves.Network: Start relationships with agents, lenders, and investors.House Hack: Consider living in a multi-unit and renting out the rest to keep costs low.You’re in a great spot—take your time, and good luck!

They might not be able to finance the entire purchase amount like other investors using hard money or private money, but they have been doing it long enough to build up a bankroll that can pay for down payments and repairs.Final ThoughtsThe 70% rule is more of a guideline, not a hard-and-fast rule.

Property flipping tends to yield higher short-term returns, allowing you to build up capital more quickly.

But very unlikely with W2 income and a full time job.But this is an awesome concept as you could basically collect rental income for several years and never be taxed on it due to passive loss carryforwards if those build up. 

Sometimes it can take a little while to build up your commission income, so if you have to take on work for cash, do something in the field that puts you in the path of future business. 

I would start with smaller units and build up from there. 

Should I buy rentals first and build up a portfolio before I get into flipping so I can have some cash flow?