They literally (no pun intended) blow the doors off the 'wholesalers' in my area.

For example, you must hire full service property managers and contractors (no DIY allowed).On the other hand, notes (debt) are naturally not very tax efficient, do not lend (pun intended) themselves to leverage as an investment, and are more passive investments.

Do I carry a pocket knife (not pun) or attend a Martial Arts class (pun)?

I've been in the fire service since 8 years now, and I'm starting to lose my flame (pun intended) with it plus cancer rates are really making me question an extended career.

I think a heart to heart with some cookies and milk (excuse the pun) is warranted.

Read through the forums here or best - listen to podcasts that will help make such decisions.I am surprised no one has suggested Stock market, Crypto or WSB yet (pun intended) :)Best to you in your investment journey!!

I am in the Boston area, and the RE prices are through the roof (RE pun intended).

Otherwise you're building a house of cards (no pun intended).If you are using conventional lenders for financing properties, the decision won't be yours to determine. 

Hey Team,I've started looking into real estate investing Oct. 2017 and have done 1 wholesale deal and am in the middle of a sandwich lease option deal, no pun intended.

At this point, you're playing with House money (almost no pun intended) in Durham -- it would be a shame to prematurely cash out unnecessarily.