Dear Wilkes-Barre-Scranton area, my name is Gabe and I'm relatively new to the real-estate game- but I'm eager to learn.

Within a year, the property was cash flow positive and had appreciated significantly.For you, I’d suggest:Look into ADU laws - They’re a game-changer in San Diego, especially if your partner is handy with renovations.Expand your market - @Dan H. makes a great point - it's a competitive market here!

Selling "Golden Tickets" has proven a dangerous game for many through-out REI history.

To me it’s a challenging game, an intricate puzzle where if you learn how to play you get great results.

Based on your advice to newer investors, should I play the long term game by paying off my house early (2030)?

I recently came across a piece in Forbes talking about how quickly rental dynamics can evolve when population growth spikes.I’m based in Phoenix and have been in the real estate game for three decades, and a close friend of mine recently reminded me how the right connections can shape your entire strategy.

It's a game changer.

It's all fun & games, until someone loses money.

Nothing wrong with being a bit new - there are options out there for all stages of the game. 

I have not reviewed BAM's fees but it's likely based on their representation of UNDER 10% "skin in the game" that most of their "investment" is taken from fees deducted from the money gamblers place with them and counted as equity in the deal; this is a common practice in the syndication industry.