His teachings suggest a paid off home, $500k in assets, and more than 1 source of income (SS if of that age, real estate, part time job, retirement/pension, etc.).

And in certain markets like SF bay area if the sewer line is of a certain age its mandatory to replace it before close of escrow its a law.

How were you able to invest in real estate at the age of 16?

Without knowing your age, I like the idea of pushing additional savings into good, no load index funds (I like Vanguard's S&P index but there are plenty of others) through a Roth if you're young enough, leave the rental portfolio as is and pay the debt down to nothing, since you're not inclined to really work at growing that end of it. 

It’s awesome to see someone starting their real estate journey at such a young age with a clear vision and determination.

That is why we are giving funds at age 30 and 40.  

My daughter will be school age a year or so after we move in.

I am 49, (not far from your age) my business partner is the same age as me.  

However, I know that I do not want all my income to be reliant on my day job and live to watch my retirement account grow.I am probably doing better than a lot of people my age but am eager to take the correct steps to build a real estate portfolio.

If it lives up to the hype I guess a lot more age groups could have some exposure just like gold etc.