A goal needs to be based on a understanding of what it requires to accomplish that goal and it must be attainable in the real world.Most people that aspire to be world famous actors or rock stars rarely get beyond waiting tables.

We like the buy & hold option but are also interested in attaining vacation properties we can not only rent out but can also use for our own family vacations. 

There is no way the casual investor is going to attain the average rental yields he does,  nor have the ability to call up a contractor and get a first rate, immediate response at wholesale contract prices so if it is a pain for him, it is worse for everyone else.There is absolutely no question the casual real estate investor can buy at full market value in Houston, in the decent low valued neighborhoods, and get cash flow and yes, long term wealth as long as they can get the low interest conventional loans. 

There has been quite a bit of development of streets with 2-5 acre lots but houses are not attainable to the "typical" family and are over $400k+.

Just FYI, 10-20 minute commute is not going to attainable in these areas.

"Scheme" as a noun refers to a plan or arrangement to attain something or put an idea in effect.

I am starting real estate school on Monday to attain my license.

@Adam Garcia, if you can get an already proven 36% annual return, why would paying 9.5% interest to attain that bother you (when the alternative is passing up the opportunity)?

I have a masters degree, so the reading/learning part of this should be attainable...just hard to juggle work, investing, marriage, and now studying for this license.  

I'm looking to attain valuable knowledge as well as valuable connections.