it looks like that's exactly what I'll be doing. as long as there are no big events that happen in the next 5 years it shouldn't be a problem. however it is a bit of an extra risk and I don't love the idea.

So I’ve finally made the choice that I will not be attending college and rather just work and save up for my first rental property.

Please look for the events under BP page. :) 

As a TIC, there were clauses in our agreement about gaining approval for buyers in the event you have to sell. 

You can’t always drop what you’re doing to show a house, attend a closing, etc. 

Another good tip is to start attending local REI meetings.  

The timing and events of income are dramatically different for these two options. 

@Abe SampsonYes, both must meet the use test.It's possible but you have to meet the requirements (job change, certain health-related events, or other unforeseeable events) - see Publication 523 for more info and search for the section titled "Does Your Home Qualify for a Partial Exclusion of Gain?".

At this point we ARE ready to jump into investing ASAP and are looking for rental properties to invest in the Cincinnati or Dayton areas, or anywhere in between, i.e. in Oxford, OH where we both attended Miami University.

Phoenix's worst weather event is during monsoon season, and it is known as Haboob.