If money were no object, do you have a specific property (whether it's for sale or not) and address that would be an ideal first investment for you?

Your best bet is to read information from public blogs that approach both options objectively.

My objective is to buy about an acre of land, that is already leveled, access is being done, and utilities are going to be 5 feet from the property; and then build 3-4 shell retail spots on my plot, owner occupy one of them with a business and lease out the others.I am meeting with a developer this weekend, but have some wrong numbers regarding the average cost of building a shell space. 

Our primary objective as coaches is to help clients ask the right questions, develop the right criteria, and identify potential red flags.  

So, David L, if your objective is a successful exit (or even predictable returns as forecasted - which was my objective), my opinion is stay far away from Open Door Capital.   

Most of what I write from here applies to this type of property because that's what is customarily purchased by new investors who prioritize cash flow and should not be construed as general principles of real estate. 

This then creates the opportunity to access that cash flow (converted into principle) via tax free refinances! 

By keeping these principles in mind, you can optimize your position in the market.

But if you or even someone you hire were to violate collections laws, licensing laws, securities laws, or bankruptcy laws, you could be fined (or sued) for much more than the investment principle.

Remember, no system is perfect, so avoid the temptation of constantly chasing after the next shiny object.