As far as timing goes.. unemployment is still low in the Bay Area, and jobs are still growing at a good pace.

If your job affords you the opportunity to do so at a faster pace than flipping then continue that course.  

In fact the velocity of money is, based on that same chart, lower now than at any time since 1959 at least (that's as far back as that particular data set goes).Total money supply has gone up during that time, but at a declining pace relative to productivity growth.That reduction in velocity is what leads to a reduction in the demand for credit and what then leads to a reduction in the price of credit (i.e. interest rates).

You may decide that it is not a good idea, or the lending market may decide for you.If you have good long term financing in place and want to expand at a pace beyond what your cashflow will let you, consider private money/ JV partnering.

If there is some benefit to going at a snail's pace I fail to see it! 

I think online is better than classroom...learn at your own pace and absorb more.Once you finish courses and pass the test, your broker you associate with is really where most of your knowledge will come from.

@Jeremy Pace sent you a message.

@Jeremy Pace - There are 3 homes on the block currently for sale.

Property Management has its moments, but I can say I really did enjoy working in a fast paced environment. 

Go at your own pace.