You haven't told us anything about what you plan to do after purchasing the property, so it's not clear how important interest rate is in the long run. 

Get a hold of a trusted lender and run through the options with them as well.

I can also be a resource for you if you're interested in acquiring run-down or as-is properties.I look forward to connecting with you and learning more about your real estate goals.

As Alex mentioned (thanks Alex), I run the Santa Barbara meetup.

We saw huge appreciation in the 2018-2022 inflation run up, but that has significantly slowed these days in my opinion.From a rental perspective your monthly income per unit after all expenses with a typical 20% down payment is likely $100-300 when you find a property that will cash flow.

I still want to have a “regular” career for now, but know I have what it takes to successfully run a business- say in the form of real estate investing.

@Kenneth TiedemannIt’s run by someone named Lee Arnold who runs multiple businessesIt’s a legit business meaning it’s not some scam that will take your deposit and run.

However, the right Broker is very important when first starting because they can train the agent how to run their business and find success.

Congrats - have you completed the deal yet (4 leases in place, STRS up and running)? 

I am not exactly sure what my goal is for the long run, but for the time being I'm looking to get a roommate, then after 2 years, to fully rent out my place and hopefully get some cash flow.