Based on my current savings rate, it would take me about 3-4 years to save up enough for the down payment on my first investment property.

This method provides an indication of value based on the property's rents.

Your content will be based on your experience--that is what adds value to the reader, and you don't have experience yet.Instead, focus on building a track record. 

I work 11-12 hour shifts, five days a week, in a demanding role, leaving me with little free time.

That alone can free up so many avenues for you.  

And if you base an offer price on that, you'll likely have an extremely difficult time getting any traction. 

If that's the case, you should be able to rate/term refinance at ~75% LTV with a DSCR loan, and with some interest-only basis, your payment will go to ~$850 (based on ROUGH pricing TODAY).

So pretty good equity position within a year plus cash flowing well based on a $325k purchase price.

He was a realtor based in the Midwest (I think the greater Chicago area) and was talking about off vs. on market deals and the importance of choosing equity over cash flow. 

Feel free to reach out with any questions, more than happy to help with any questions you may have.