(high five) I work from home in the Tech industry as a software Product Manager. 

"Industrial chic."

@Constance Kang well you discovered how many of the most expensive REI instructors work in this industry.

Also, post industry articles.

The best way to leverage 80k in this industry is based off of your skill set.Are you handy?

A lot of people will pay $1200/nt for 4 crappy budget motel 6 quality rooms at the All-Star resort rather than $175/nt for an 8br themed out mansion with a private pool, theater, and $30,000 arcade room.To answer your original question on investing over a long-term period, that is really this market's main strength. 

Looking back, the biggest lesson was saving from a position of financial strength.

You are wise to limit your scope to a particular type of company.I have been in the industry for the past two decades, and from my years in the business, I can recommend a couple of other companies outside of my family. 

Knowing this information will help you identify the right professionals to bring on board.At minimum, your team team should include:Financial Advisor: to help with investment strategies - portfolio diversification and risk management.Real Estate Agent/Broker: to help with property acquisition and market analysis.Accountant or Tax Advisor: to help manage financial records, tax planning, and optimization.Attorney: to provide legal counsel for contracts, agreements, and investment structures.Mentor or Coach: to offer guidance, insights, and industry knowledge.Networking and Relationship Builder (for everything else you will need): to connect you with potential partners and collaborators.

I have worked my entire career in construction and last 2 years performing entitlements, permitting, and construction for industrial developments along the Wasatch.