I work as an independent contractor and had an income of 65k for 2018 and no debts, which allows me to buy a property up to 301000, the problem is that i am doing my taxes now and if I deduct mileage for my car this will result in a 36000 income which allows me to buy a property up to $193000.

Another goal of mine is to also move out and enjoy the 20s as I love my independence as well but if I need to remain here, save more and invest with more capital I will sacrifice and do so.I am able to travel and look at properties and be in any state for months at a time if need be as I know investing in NY might not be the best situation.Highly appreciate your comments, questions, and advice on what my next steps should be!

FI as in Financial Independence.

@Joe VilleneuveFinancial independence in year 3.

The most certain thing that we know about the challenge of achieving financial independence through real estate is that having a spouse who doesn't want to take the journey with you is the kiss of death to that journey.My wife doesn't post on this site, but to give you a sense of what the other side of the coin looks like, she actually brought us our first deal.

@Jay Helms - Yes makes complete sense - I need to do a better job of finding a like minded group - I have had lukewarm results with partners i have chosen to date and my independent nature makes me scale back that effort. 

My Hope is that with this license I will be able to access better search tools and have the ability to enter properties independently.   

Some investors/landlords are all for it and some dislike working with the Section 8 program.Basics:  As an independent landlord, you will be working with the Housing Choice Voucher part of the program, not the Public Housing part. 

He reminded me of the need to have a 6month cushion in savings as well of course, I am wondering if he will be the right accountant for me as I change my views on investing and passive income / financial independence, real estate, etc...yes I read Rich Dad Poor Dad and it opened my eyes.

Next steps, as I see it:Verify ARV yourself, independent of the agent.