Really puts into perspective my strategy given my current situation.I will continue to accumulate capitol and work on my skills/knowledge for when i will embark on my rental real estate journey whether it be here (if i stay longer than anticipated) or when I come back to the US once my contract is completed. 

Your scattered approach is going nowhere fast (analysis paralysis) and is highly likely to result in someone taking advantage of you:(Recommend:1) Figuring out what investment approach suits your skills & risk tolerance2) Determining where in the US to apply your chosen approach3) Learning everything you can about that market4) Networking & building contacts & team in the market5) Doing a "test" investment in that market to make sure your expectations are met6) Investing more if your expectations are met.-- If not, go back to step #1 as you many have chosen the wrong approach!

I and many others have the skills and finances to do it.

Some owners would prefer a clearly defined floor even at the cost of not rising to the highest ceiling.While I hate to say it, there are also property owners who lack either the time, knowledge, inclination, or skill to want to manage their property effectively.

Active investing takes your time and some type of knowledge or skill that gives you an advantage over other investors.  

As I've observed, after a down period, the market tends to recover and show growth for approximately three years.Timing the market is a skill every real estate investor should develop.

Obviously, I need a job and want something in RE so that I'm in the loop & can learn from to apply my skills and experience towards REI. 

My contractor is a skilled tradesman who won't beg me for work or give me discounts even though I told him I am an investor cry cry cry...

Vacation rentals are a cash flow game really.

I was a foster child who put myself through college on my own, and I have relied on some good friends for a place to stay as I grew up, which has motivated me to create a better life for myself.I have done a lot of research on real estate, and from my perspective, it seems as if wholesaling, which I feel my sales skills may help with, would be a good place to start to make some extra money to speed up the investing process.