We try to buy around the 1% and when it's repositioned, we achieve above the 1%.

I also wouldn't be opposed to using a 203k loan to finance and renovate a multifamily to house hack and rent out (I know it's a lot more work and harder to achieve but I think the potential could definitely make it worth while, especially with the up coming changes going into effect soon). 

. - there are numerous ways to achieve sweat equity from boring but true rehabs, to development, to various localized sophisticated options

That's a huge achievement, and it sounds like you navigated some real challenges along the way.Your story reminds me of a project I took on years ago.

I’m looking for some guidance on my next steps toward achieving financial freedom through real estate.My long-term goal is to acquire enough rental properties to secure my financial future.

I aim to create a steady stream of passive income and achieve long-term financial stability.

What an achievement.

Welcome @Rebecca Morris,These are the 10 first steps I would recommend to get started in REI (real estate investing):1) Educate Yourself: Read books, take online courses, and attend seminars about real estate basics, market trends, and investment strategies.2) Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve in real estate—whether it’s buying a home, investing in rental properties, or flipping houses.3) Choose Your Niche: Decide if you want to focus on residential, commercial, or industrial real estate, or perhaps a mix of these.4) Research the Market: Analyze your local real estate market.

People who have summited their personal Mount Everest and achieved the so sought after Financial Freedom.

You can use it to create a budget, set goals, track your spending, and monitor your progress toward achieving your goals.Why investors should use it: Empower can be used by real estate investors to track rental incomes.