But this just means the competition between nationwide brokerage is intensified, folks expecting tech-driven RE company like Costar's homes.com and Zillow to take over traditional nationwide brokerage that lacks of efficiency or transaction cost.As real estate volume reduces and reduced commission would be the new game, I don't expect traditional brokerage could survive if they don't adapt. 

Likewise, calling to buy someone's property still has the ultimate goal of arranging to provide a service to consumers.

A good agent can also help you strategize on the funding side of things and ultimately refer you to a lender. 

You could pursue agent full time then do side hustles on the side to survive till the business lifts off.

Pro and Con: The leases are only 1 year, so adjusting rates, while ultimately market driven, have a better ability to keep up with inflation during high inflation times.  

Of course there's a bit more to every build and budget will ultimately decide where you end up developing.

It's your property and you will ultimately be responsible for the serious damage incurred. 

My parents had rentals and they looked at them differently than I did (interest rates were also different).You ultimately need to be comfortable doing what you are doing and educated in it. 

However, the decision ultimately depends on your risk tolerance and specific needs and preferences.

I think the hard money route the first few times will ultimately kill my current approach.