Joining as a LP in a Syndications felt the right opposite to what I want, at least right now in my position.

What i am seeing from the most experienced So CA RE investors is the opposite.  

Troy, Ohio is almost the opposite of Boston, MA in every way.

the opposite  call mortgage companies and apply for a job. 

Or find a property that is under-utilized or has below market rents.Otherwise, you could also do the OPPOSITE of the great advice from @Jonathan Greene and buy a property with multi-bed units or live in the larger unit and rent out the smaller unit - while getting a roommate(s).

Isn't it like you're suggesting somebody to do something (investing in Costa Rica instead of the US) while you (the experienced investor in Costa Rica) does the exact opposite with your own money?

It is easier for me because I have basically the opposite of ADHD, but putting everything on Google Calendar and blocking out what you want to do each week usually starts to work wonders if someone sticks to it.

We've also encountered the opposite.

In real estate, I believe its the opposite because its based on Assets and good deals will make money.

This sounds like the opposite of that.