If you self manage short-term rentals it's well within reach. 

I currently work with investors who are looking to begin their portfolio in turn-key real estate and manage for them on the back end so they can still enjoy their everyday lives while having a resident in place paying down their loans. 

As you suggest lowering down payment to buy more properties is one way, although the downside is greater risk in event of down cycle and more time to manage required.  

With 30 years of residential construction experience and having built several homes in the past few years, I bring a strong foundation in project execution and quality craftsmanship.Right now, I’m seeking lenders to help me unlock home equity for property acquisitions and to expand my portfolio.

Hey all, I have a client that's looking to scale his portfolio and we're looking at Assumable Loans here in San Antonio.

Are you wanting to grow a portfolio of rentals without coming out of pocket to acquire each?

Only with a definitive goal can you accurately assess your options.What I hear you saying is that you do want to build a rental portfolio. 

My ultimate goal is to build a portfolio of cash-flowing properties to achieve financial freedom.I’m currently seeking mentors who can guide me through this journey and help me avoid common pitfalls.

Over the last several years I've been in a heavy cycle of acquiring and building rental portfolio, flipping, contracting, and being a realtor.

Far more than most real estate acitivies and much quicker think about it.. you sell the same info over and over and get paid instantly you have no roofs to fix no tenants to manage etc etc.. you do have reputation management of course.