It remains the fastest growing metro in the US and also a top market for job growth.

The goal is not about accumulating money based on the rate of return but to continue to stack and grow the cash flow. 

You could reach out to the folks at The Nature Conservancy and they could provide additional info if that route sounds appealing.  

Sure, it can be quite a process, but with experience and a growing network, it does become more manageable.Let's go!

I would do some market research on top-growing cities and determine which of those cities are within your price range and cashflow goals.

Someone once said, you are either growing or you are dying.

And with more equity, you can 1031 into a larger property and grow your net worth.

Haha, not sure about the veracity of some of those comments, but I tend to be skeptical by nature anyway.

On a side note: As a new investor myself I am looking to grow my relationships, especially with contracotrs, and would love to hear about your work.

If the numbers aren't there yet, I'd suggest focus on growing your income, look into house hacking as previously suggested, or consider partnering with other investors who can qualify for the loans.