Our aim is to leverage the skills and discipline we developed through service to build a successful real estate portfolio. 

Your discipline and focus on your financial future are commendable.When it comes to deciding between real estate investing and the stock market, both have their unique advantages, especially when considering the power of compounding interest.

You would need to save 25% of $200k = $50k for each property's downpaymentFind good dealsPayoff your properties The whole journey can be >10 years if you are saving and are disciplined about reinvesting your cash flow. 

We plan to start with short term vacation rentals, in multiple locations around the country, then possibly move into other disciplines from there.We are happy to be here and learn all we can.Aaron

There are numerous books, podcasts, and online resources available to help you become a more knowledgeable investor.By following these steps and staying disciplined in your approach, you can successfully house hack using your VA loan and build a solid foundation for your real estate investment portfolio.

@Christie Dunivant Christie the law in Florida states that :475.25 Discipline.—(1) The commission may deny an application for licensure, registration, or permit, or renewal thereof; may place a licensee, registrant, or permittee on probation; may suspend a license, registration, or permit for a period not exceeding 10 years; may revoke a license, registration, or permit; may impose an administrative fine not to exceed $5,000 for each count or separate offense; and may issue a reprimand, and any or all of the foregoing, if it finds that the licensee, registrant, permittee, or applicant:(h) Has shared a commission with, or paid a fee or other compensation to, a person not properly licensed as a broker, broker associate, or sales associate under the laws of this state, for the referral of real estate business, clients, prospects, or customers, or for any one or more of the services set forth in s. 475.01(1)(a).

It makes more sense to me if your a flipper and only going to use the funds for rehab cost and have the discipline to not go overboard. 

Your careful, disciplined real estate investing will make so many of your dreams come true you'll start dreaming bigger dreams.

But even if you only wanted to pay your mortgage off faster and not invest, it works as long as you are disciplined, don't increase your expenses w/o at least a corresponding increase in income and basically use the HELOC as your checking account.

Being a father of 3 and also a grandfather, I want to praise you on your commitment and discipline at 24 years of age.