Seems like they usually start with a little info to get your attention and then tell you to just punch the numbers into the Pro Tool and voila, you're now ready to purchase a property and I'm just thinking, "Did I even learn anything?". 

The more experience earned, you gain insight into comparables, learn neighborhoods, get better and better in determining a real deal from a stinker.Sounds like you earned a little break now!

LoL So really trying to learn what I can, gain some capital, and see what my options could be for the year.I'd like turnkey and long term renters in place, as that seems like a good way to get started as a rookie. 

Now Im looking to maximize my potential, gain some financial independence and start making my money work for me and not work for my money.

Starting with an owner-occupied duplex is a smart way to build equity and gain experience.

But don't let them know it.It amazes me how many of our members at MassRealEstate dot net have an Asset worth $300-500k Rent it for .5-1% of value and hardly pay attention to it, yet chase a tenth of a percent in CD rates;-)

Luckily the family in my rental is paying $9000/mo (3x my mortgage) so I am gaining signifigant wiggle room for mistakes.

Starting sooner rather than later allows you to benefit from long-term appreciation, build equity, and gain hands-on experience, even with a smaller property.

I'd love to connect and definitely gain some perspective from you!

However, this allowed me to gain initial experience and confidence without being overwhelmed by managing multiple platforms simultaneously.