I have a question though, with no experience as an employee, is it still reasonable to get my first property by Summer of 2025?

Entrepreneurial ecosystems are being created all over the country to foster local expertise and resources.

Adding to @Dave Foster ' s point, REIT returns simply may not hold up over time.  

Quote from @Dave Foster: @Hardy Davis  As long as you've lived in the property for two out of the previous five years, you could qualify for the 121 exclusion.

Dave Foster is always a fantastic resource in this community.

Thank you for helping to foster an excellent investing forum environment!

But eventually you take the leap… you decide to go for it and you tread water until you can swim to the next level of your future.For me, I was about 20 attending a photography seminar as a store employee and the day I heard that phrase it hit me… I’m going nowhere being the employee.  

@Dave Foster   Dave should be able to help with this..

I can tell you as a former Employee. 

(And no, I am not an employee!)