Both homes have mortgages, about 37% Loan to value, at an exceptional rate of 2.625% (15 yr and 20 yr respectively, both refinanced in 2020). 

Just curious, could someone purchase, say a triplex, using a FHA loan, rent out two of the three units, retaining the third unit for yourself, but not actually live in it?

You can open a Self-Directed IRA and use the IRA funds to buy a house using a Non-recourse loan. 

I borrowed $30k on a personal loan from Discover for 15% with no fees for a plot of land and paid "cash" for it.

Like I mentioned to Eliott, I'm very young and I can't get a loan.

Over the next 5–10 years, I plan to scale to a portfolio of rental properties and eventually diversify into syndications.I’m particularly interested in the Lynchburg, VA market and other areas with strong rental demand.What I Bring to the Table:I’ve been saving aggressively, and I’m exploring physician loans to help get started with minimal upfront costs.I’ve done a lot of reading (shoutout to BiggerPockets books!)

If you close with a conventional loan, it will need to be in your personal name.

To fund your next deal, explore conventional loans (15-25% down), FHA loans (3.5% down for house hacking), DSCR loans (based on rental income), or HELOC/cash-out refinance if you have equity.

If a HELOC isn't an option due to Texas laws, you could consider a cash-out refinance with another property or a portfolio loan, even if you want to keep your current rate.

Your realtor will be able to give you a much more detailed market specific answer but with house hacking and a VA loan it should be possible to get 0 out of pocket.