My plan for now is to rent out property, probably starting with either a single family or multi family (probably not in the bay area).I'm currently a product designer and have worked at big tech companies, so if anyone has design/tech questions feel free to hit me up!

There also are a ton of do it yourself pamphlets and taking time to read product labels and installation instructions is also helpful.

You may also want to search for a Full Service Mortgage Banker or Direct Lender in your area to compare rates with.Some local/community banks can offer great Investor loans and some do not offer FHA products.

At the root of these, IMHO, are the same problems that eventually plague most all mass-market, make money in real estate, info-product educators.

The lower your tax bracket, the less productive those benefits become.

The problem is if for instance I love a product and contact the company directly.

Have you looked at this loan product? 

The effective outcome is the same, but with more flexibility retained by you.Also, when it comes time to look at placing a mortgage, I strongly encourage you to look at a variable rate, fixed term product.  

You can find the same product for well under $40k if you know where to look and who to ask [me].I would strongly suggest that you stick with a simple SFH, 3/1, post war built ranch that rents for $700+.  

No company is perfect by any means but if your looking for excellent customer service and a quality product from a reputable company you might want to contact @Chris Clothier who is a regular here also.