My current goal is to analyze properties for potential deals on BP pro daily and start wrapping my head a general understanding of the process. 

That's annoying they changed it with no warning - Brandon would always talk about all the FREE tools they have on here for newbies to start practicing analyzing properties.

This kind of govt nosiness and overreach is why I initially decided against the financial planning industry before starting in credit. you can thank 2008 and all the fraud that went on for that.

Goal would be to acquire 20 rentals by the age of retirement, with some already starting to be paid off.I am in the same boat as you, and I focus on safe appreciation all day (small cash flow for safety and then focused on markets on that appreciate). 

i found in my build projects that started just before and continued through the pandemic prices rose. everything but lumber became sticky IE they rose but did not fall..

You should have already started the eviction process!

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

I started in house hacking 10 years ago and it's been an amazing journey!

Quote from @Jade Frank: Hi, I'm Jade and I'm looking to get started with real estate investing.

I would say that is not a great way to start.