Pick the amount of income you want real estate to provide you, and buy the amount of units you'd need, such that if they were paid off, you'd hit your goal.

Consider duplexes or triplexes that can help offset your mortgage and provide steady income while you figure things out.

To structure a partnership, consider forming an LLC where you handle property management, renovations, and operations, while the investor provides the down payment.

This benefit allows the owner’s estate or heirs to receive the property at a new, higher basis—reducing capital gains taxes if they choose to sell the property after inheriting it.In short, partial disposition allows tax deductions for retired property components during ownership, while the death step-up basis resets the property’s depreciated value, providing tax relief for heirs.

A quick google search reveals that Minneapolis provides assistance for first time home buyers so there seems to be a problem with funds for first time home buyers in your locale too.

This is all a safety net for landlords to not have any liability from a tenant if they are providing false information.

Assuming all of the information you provided is in line.i.e.

You are providing investment advice for a monthly fee.

Provided you are sticking to the letter and spirity of your rental agreement, you have to set boundaries People that get indignant over you setting boundaries are not worth worried about. 

These options could provide flexibility with your upfront costs and monthly payments.Expand Your Search Radius or Property Type:If you’re set on a single-family home, you might find more affordable options by expanding your search to nearby areas in San Diego County or by considering properties that need a little TLC.Partnerships:Partnering with another investor or family member might be a way to pool resources for a purchase.