The only constant is that it seems to be one or the other.

The majority of buyers appreciate the expertise that a good agent provides (local market knowledge that can only be gained by being active in the market buying and selling all the time, looking at most of the new listings in person or at least online daily, a background in or at least understanding of building construction, relationships within the network of professionals in the industry doing deals, vendor referrals, legal protection through E&O insurance and keeping up with constant changes in approved contracts and required disclosures and forms, negotiating skills (the average person is terrible at negotiating directly and has no desire to, I find Americans are uniquely averse to negotiating and prefer to outsource it but I digress), etc.).

I have not seen any "main stream" versions of this just back country engineering but it's a solid concept and works well. 

Constant accordion push pull. 

Constantly manage bookkeeping and cash flow to make sure you stay on budget and/or make adjustments when (not if) things come up to stay on track.  

We resolved them by constantly reminding each other about the bigger picture (the profit we can make and how we can scale) and having full transparency.

While it provides a steady income stream and potential appreciation, it demands active management, thorough tenant screening, and may involve higher vacancy risks compared to traditional leases.

I’m hoping to establish a reliable stream of unearned income through real estate investments, but I’m new to the field and looking for guidance.I have around $35,000 saved (excluding stock investments) and would love to connect with someone who can help me navigate this world.

There is a ridiculous amount of inventory on the market and you are constantly fighting with bottom-dwellers willing to rent their dumps for $89/night.

More parts means more failure points that wear and separate over time, especially stuff that is constantly moved and sat/slept on.