However, knowing what path others took does help determine what general direction is right for oneself. 

If one were to limit oneself to what the IRS “thinks”, then one’s clients would not fully benefit from what the law actually permits.In the John D.

Why do you prefer or not prefer this over investing by oneself?

For example, ten years ago, when I moved to my home, there was only one self-storage facility in the area.

True.the time taken to educate oneself and discuss with others active in the rei field reduces the learning curve for the beginner

The BP community stands very ready to help and make some recommendations especially if its known that the ask is clear, the person has spent a bit of time educating oneself on options.... some reading (BP, other RE books), perhaps attended some local RE meetups for a few months, founds some areas that made sense, then formulated some sound choices.  

Does anyone know of any good sources on as far as educating oneself on creative financing?

Then there's everything from ReboGateway, to Ron LeGrand's VA services... but for prelim analysis, you get a "thirty day free trial' of REI PRO, for no investment, which is actually enough time to familiarize oneself with the software, unlike many "free trails!"

I believe that success comes from the preparation, planning and positioning of oneself for luck...

Some in SoCal would prefer to have 2-3 homes paid off by the time they retire, than count on a 401k that may never be enough to pay oneself what rent from those properties can pay in perpetuity.