I have the funds available today for the purchase of a rental property as well as a primary residence, but I also want to set myself and my wife up to reach financial freedom.  

Also there is no restriction on acquiring conventional loan on primary residence even if you have maxed out on conventional loan for rentals.

I could be wrong but I thought I saw that Sacramento requires primary residence for the owner for STR.Do you live in Sacramento or nearby ?

Look at their rental history, the conditions of their previous residence, and ensure they have a good track record with past landlords.

Look, I have no idea who Eric is, what type of person he is but I will say after a quick search I saw that he did in fact sell his company for MAJOR $$$ and that he is active in Section 8, no idea if his course is good or garbage but still felt the urge to respond because I am so tired of hearing SCAMMER, find it online to EVERY SINGLE post asking about any course. anyone who actually sells their business and nets 110 mil is NOT going to dive into Section 8 or any real estate for that matter other than fine personal residences etc.. they retire and spend it.. so I dont think so.Plus section 8 is simply not complicated its run by the Sec 8 folks in each city.. nothing magical about that.. its a tough way to go being a section 8 landlord lots of drama.

Investment Info:Single-family residence hard money loan investment.

Investment Info:Single-family residence buy & hold investment in New Milford.

Investment Info:Single-family residence fix & flip investment in Chicago Heights.

@John Leeagree with being picky with where you live and your primary residence. 

And consulting with a local attorney to ensure compliance with state-specific real estate laws, plus making sure you have the necessary permits, is a smart move.As you start, also look into state-specific rules regarding contractors and renovations, especially if you plan to flip in different states from where you reside.