Once you've thought a bit about what your ideal wholistic investment portfolio looks like, if you decide that you want some kind of more active real estate investing in the mix, I cannot recommend more getting Start with Strategy by Dave Meyer and the accompanying workbook The Strategy Planner.

While I find this the ideal way to buy more properties it also stunts my growth and I tend to lose patients. 

Obviously all that is ideal and that is the timeframe we would love to get everything done in.

Step up in basis to reduce your heirs' taxes and morePlus the real estate tax "deferral" can end up being permanent if played correctly

You're not in the position to be a cash buyer...as a former wealth manager, it's simply not a good play for you for many of the reasons stated above and more.  

A tiktok live of a dude playing a long haul truck driver simulation.

I would try to find an agent with investor experience and, ideally, a focus on investment properties. 

Quote from @Chris Seveney: @Jay HinrichsGreat points - yes many are from here on BP such as a bearded guy, a guy who threatened to sue a LP and still doesn’t respond according to his investors, two other “note funds” one investing in skidrow homes and the other in broadway plays….

Working with a great broker can also help as they will know how best to represent your interests and play the game.

I’m all done playing those games.