Engage an investor-focused realtor/broker in your preferred market (this is not a residential realtor) and start 'tire kicking' the market and properties that fit your criteria.

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

I started working for a company where we would serve properties to investors using the double close wholesale model.

How do I even start the conversation as a tenant?

While you're focusing on building your capital, I recommend to start connecting with other investors in your target areas.

That said, even with conservative rental income estimates, my living expenses would eventually drop to several hundred dollars less than what I’m currently paying in rent once the house hack starts generating income.I do have cash reserves to weather some rough patches, but the idea of pushing my budget this hard makes me uneasy.

Do you also use Redfin/Zillow as a starting point? 

Piece of advice - when I started I wish I would have focused on my multifamily niche/expertise from day one vs trying to be the agent for everyone (flippers, STR buyers, land, etc). 

Over the course of using Bigger Pockets I have had very degrees of opinions on who I should vote for concerning a post.When I first started using Bigger Pockets, I was too naïve to even think of voting for someone that took the time to answer one of my post.  

Since I'm just starting, I'd appreciate any insights on:-The best ways to build trust and credibility as a beginner.