I like this, bet on the jockey more than the horse kind of situation.

That’s the best bet.

I understand why this is the choice asset for many: they are inexpensive with no barrier & easily financed (easily attainable). 

Going through my real estate journey I have learned a lot, I am 24, a veteran and a graduate from Temple University,I started with aspirations of investing on a property and making a quick flip.My problem lied with fear of failing, my capital and my savings.I decided I wanted to learn the real estate market and know the ins and outs before I would make a bold choice on buying my first real estate home.

The best way to connect and learn is to be in rooms where it's going down.In terms of captial your best bet is to focus on a primary income that cash flow sufficiently, saving as much as you can and doing something real estate related so you can get familiar with the industry.

I bet there were some takeaways looking back. 

., San Diego, and others)—making it feel like a “natural” choice for a regional traveller wanting to get away for a short weekend. 

Usually its a safer bet.

I went with the conventional option for a few reasons, but that's not the best choice for everyone.

I doubt you'll make 11% with the S&P, but it is probably still your best bet.