I, like Hunter, also prefer buy and hold, it is the best way to accumulate wealth but it is slow and boring not flashy and cool like flipping. 

Accumulate some of the minor repairs so your worker doesn't make 20 trips. 

Now calculate how much capital you have access to now and how much you have the ability to accumulate for investments each year.  

In REI you're most commonly having to accumulate capital before you can invest (say, for example, you need to save that $100/month for 24 months before you can buy). 

Look to accumulate as many properties on a single street or neighboring streets in vacation cities.

If we keep this house and rent it out, I don't see how we would be able to access the equity we have accumulated and use it to start making more money. 

Originally I really liked the flat tax idea, but I have warmed up to the idea that a (reasonable) progressive system of some sort is the best choice.The reason is because of a phenomenon called "accumulated advantage".As a person becomes wealthier, it becomes easier to accumulate more wealth.

Ithink you are correct in thinking that real estate is asolid way to accumulating solid wealth.We're glad you've joined us.

To accelerate your first goal, follow the money.I do put in a "mostly" because it is possible to accumulate enough money to generate enough return to provide a living.

You may say he should get out of those low yielding treasury bonds and leverage more, but at his net worth, he is in capital preservation mode, not in a capital accumulation mode like us.