Obviously my career has enabled me to purchase some real estate on the side.

As of November 9, about one month after the 90 day challenge podcast, I was able to close on a 4 unit apartment that would double my cash flow, enable me to value-add equity to the property, and BRRRR out my money into the minor updates this spring.

These provide a neutral venue and tend to attract those that are serious about lending their money, enabling you to avoid others with cold-feet at the last minute.Rates are obviously important, no doubt.

I currently work full time as a software engineer and my goal is to use real estate to enable me to quit the rat race within 10 years. 

If the whole property, PLUS rehab costs are being bought with all hard money, then where is your equity that will enable you to find 'proper' lenders later?  

It can be a meaningful difference because it enables me to write off $25K in rental loss per year AFTER I have reached the higher tax bracket.  

Also enabling them to rollover IRAs and old 401ks into a Solo401k.

Short-term, both for appreciation and cash-flow, you're a little late to the game. Rents

If moving anywhere enables or enhances your ability to achieve your goals and objectives, you move.

In addition to enabling BP members to view the timestamp on posts in our local time, it would allow everyone to have email notifications waiting for them at breakfast regardless of where in the world they are having breakfast :)