Would the option of using your retirement fund (401k, IRA, ...) as an option for funding a deal be appealing?

Work on getting that credit up, building your savings, looking for a house hack, work in the real estate world, continue to learn and share your successes with your friends.  

Michael or Bob at Swaine & Harris P.A. is likely the best firm in FL, they cost a bit more up front but I highly recommend them because you'll save a lot of money on the back.

So if your higher salary from living in a high cost area offsets the higher housing price, then the necessities of life are only incrementally more expensive...this allows you to have more money to save and invest, or pay down college debt quicker etc.

When you are ready to retire is the better time to focus on mortgage free rentals.  

Our goal is to increase our net worth, to help supplement retirement income down the road and to currently provide a stream of cash flow to enjoy some of the finer things in life.We both work full time in professional careers and have so far found a way to manage careers and the real estate business while keeping up with two kids (15 yrs & 20 Yrs old).  

if you can fix some yourself you can save tons as you learn the ropes.  

Closing costs can add up so Ive always tried to avoid them (unless you significantly save on the interest rate)Most big banks will loan 75 to 80 LTV and having a signed lease to show income on the property will help your debt-to-income ratio. 

Right now trying to educate myself and save for some capital.  

I make a decent salary for the Bay area, have a good amount of savings and don't have many expenses outside of rent and student loan payment.