Does this vary by market, or is this parameter independant of market geography? 

Investors who look for cash flow are usually long term investors who are seeking to create a reliable source of passive income so that they can achieve financial independence and retire early.

I am using a mixture of my own labor, my family, and some independent contractors to get my project done.

I've been investing in stocks for quite some time and am very interested in diversifying into and achieving financial independence through real estate.

I say generally because I have experienced "...judgements attaching to the property that are not recorded at the county clerk's as a lien" as I detailed in this old BP post.Personally, I use an independent attorney in courthouse proceedings, not just for title searches but for the whole enchilada.

As a newbie investor who is currently in the educational phase and has zero deals under his belt, I am exploring the many directions I can take in real estate towards achieving my goal of becoming financially independent before the age of 45 (I am 30 years-old now). 

If my goal is financial independence and I am very intrigued by all forms of real estate investing, what path would you suggest I take? 

If my goal is financial independence and I am very intrigued by all forms of real estate investing, what path would you suggest I take?

If my goal is financial independence and I am very intrigued by all forms of real estate investing, what path would you suggest I take?

Nonetheless, congrats for thinking about your financial independence and learning more about RE and best of luck!