Get knowledge, follow experienced people, and leverage wisely.My Take:If you have two houses, excellent credit, and motivation to build wealth, you can learn to manage your money responsibly.Use HELOC, credit cards, and business credit funding to leverage your cash and buy properties faster.

Building strong relationships with lenders is critical and the easiest way to do that is to be easy to work with. 

While I didn't want to stay there permanently, it was a stepping stone to build my track record. 

There's always more to learn and building a network is essential to growth and success. 

I am passionate about helping investors build life-changing wealth through scalable portfolios.Background:Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration, I is fluent in Spanish and have spent a decade in nonprofit work and overseas missions.

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

You will need to build the relationship.  

Quote from @Trent Reeve: well, a company would have to 50 states and build in integration functionality for 50 different systems.

Focus on building cash flow and equity while targeting value-add opportunities to transition into shopping centers and strip malls over time.Good luck!

For path #2, you mean purchase & renovate a 3-5 unit building right?