Would love to connect with other RE investors that can guide me/us and build confidence along the way.   

Lastly, they like building relationships.

That way, you can get your foot in the door, start building equity, and stay at home a bit longer to save more money.You could also consider the BRRRR method where you buy a fixer-upper, rehab it to add value, rent it out, and then refinance to pull your cash back out.

You want to focus on markets that work with your plan and also where you have a personal connection with someone, even if you build that on the internet.

Just be prepared for potential vacancies.My advice is to build relationships with university housing offices.

Ive been trying for years to use my home equity to start investing in other propeties or apt buildings.

Running a portfolio well would be like taking on a second job as you build your own systems 

They are tearing it down to build a logistics facility.

Hi John,Welcome to the world of real estate investing—it sounds like you’ve got an amazing foundation to build on, even if you’re just starting out.

May not be your cup of tea but they are cost efficient and they work to add passive income at a fraction of the cost to build a SFH.There are a few "Tiny Home" builders in Tampa and Manatee doing a ton of business.