Depends on your needs.

Any pointers or advice on doing it in the area? 

Any tips on how to pass the tests?

At this point, I'm not so concerned about achieving that exactly, but if my REI journey takes me there on my way to (or even after) financial freedom, then I'm all for it.There's still some work to do to prepare financially for "the first deal" and that moment legitimately appears to be about 2 years away. 

I'm still in the learning phase and have read about a hundred different books on FI and personal finance.Looking for any resources that might help me on my way.

And when that someone else says the house, they will pay capital gains and depreciation recapture on the sale.

I like Hemlane, which is advertised on here.

@Nathan Gesner I like in CA, I’m scared of snow… unless I’m on a snowboarding trip!

On the bright side I think many of the scammers that sell you on owning 1000 units are being wiped away and maybe that kind of an opportunity will come back. 

If you can find an investment that pays for itself, you won't be so nervous about investing.I also recommend you educate yourself on how to manage well.