It’s a longer-term game, though, with higher upfront costs.I’d say spend some time researching your target area and connecting with local investors or meetups—they’re goldmines for market insights and networking.

Eliminate debt, establish a budget, and save.

The fact I can go to my kid's golf game today, yet still catch a vendor overcharging me $81 the day before on a SFR in Georgia makes me feel the systems that are in place, plus the ability to manage sacrifices has paid off.I've had the same team in most of businesses for almost 8 years, and have a growing RE team that continue to impress me. 

That said, you deserve a management team that treats your properties with the same level of care and attention as they would for larger clientsI’ve heard from other investors that finding a great PM company can be a game-changer.

Just keep in mind that entertainment expenses—like taking clients out for a show or a game—aren’t deductible anymore.And, yes, you can deduct 100% of your education expenses if you’re already a real estate investor.

Starting out, single-family was my go-to—easier to manage and a great intro to the game.

And then your REI income matches your W2 income the first time etcTo your question: equity is the name of the game.

Alternative route I chose, I will leverage my duplex (purchased 4 years ago) equity through house hacking to have skin in the game on next flip.

Eliminate debt, establish a budget, and save.

A review of your offering documents makes clear that investor money is considered game for any purpose.