@Chris Grenzig  The chart on Wikipedia is interesting, its showing the population gains/losses from 2020 to 2023. 

interest rates going down, would increase demand for goods/services, thereby increasing inflation.That's the theory anyway, but supply side inflation can be plenty dangerous as well.I think the 2024 outcome will just continue to benefit property holders, if you already own, just sit tight.

In my opinion, the marginal protection benefit doesn't justify the extra costs and worse financing terms.

Gradually transition to larger, higher-end projects as you gain confidence and expertise, balancing risk and reward.

If it is smaller family-owned business, see if it makes sense to offer a Defined Benefit Plan.

What education should i gain before purchasing my first rental property?

The extra cost is typically well worth the benefit. 

This will lower interest costs and free up future cash flow for reinvestment or reserves.Tax Planning: Work with a CPA to mitigate tax impacts from principal-heavy payments and potential gains.

If you're able to get tenants paying over market rents, you can also gain a lot of interest because of the heavy cash-flow. 

The transaction allows investors to increase the liquidity and diversification of their real estate investments while deferring costly capital gains and depreciation recapture taxes that may result from the sale of a property.Benefits: REITs also can provide the same ongoing benefits of real estate ownership including income, depreciation tax shelter, principal pay down, and appreciation.