Here’s what I recommend:Cash Investments:No Debt, No Stress: With cash, you avoid third-party control and loan vetting, giving you full control of returns.Equity Builders: Partnering with builders often reduces your property entry cost by up to 20% below market value.Consistent 10% Returns: With an all-cash approach, achieving 10% ROI is realistic and efficient.Financing Strategy:If cash isn’t feasible, consider a balanced financing model:40-50% Down Payment: Keep leverage manageable while maximizing returns.Lower Debt Exposure: A conservative loan-to-value ratio (LTV) reduces risks and keeps returns stable.Work with a Builder: Collaboration with builders can lower acquisition costs and increase your ROI.Key Takeaways:If possible, prioritize cash for simplicity, control, and consistent returns.Financing can work well with a disciplined approach to debt and a strong underwriting process.Partnering with builders offers opportunities to reduce costs and enhance your portfolio’s profitability. 

Taking financial advice from people who have made a life of consistent bad financial decisions is never a good idea.

I'm sure there are agents and investors with deeper insights, but for most of us, a consistent, long-term approach—similar to dollar-cost averaging when investing in index funds—seems like the most practical strategy.That being said, I am also interested to hear what others have to say though, so thank you for the post!

Padsplit is a topic of discussion also (STR room rentals), but I think LTR's are a little more consistent with income and a bit less work.

Been using them for a couple of years now and still provides consistent results.

So... as a good fool, I end up signing for the 3 days course expecting to have good lessons.I then went to the seminar that I left after 2 days of consistent brain washing.

The trade-offs are real, but for consistent cash flow and the right landlord, it can be an excellent strategy.What’s the best way to start?

So you get some consistent sales.

If you consistently analyze properties, recognizing a good deal will be much easier when it shows up.

Learn how to consistently hit singles and doubles, and don't be ashamed to take the occasional walk. 5 years is a very short time frame to go from no RE to financially free (although you may already have property, which is an awesome start).