I was feeling like I had to come up with one amazing, all-encompassing "why", but really there are so many different reasons I have to invest in real estate. 

but everyone who has raves about how all-encompassing it is.

If you need more, wait another year.Lastly, while CDs have their place in an overall investment strategy, they should not encompass your entire investment universe.

A strict tenant screening process is a must, and make sure your lease is all-encompassing and clear.

Being a real estate agent encompasses running your own business and real estate investing involves economics which you should be learning in your business program.

Thus, one or two steps away from median, or enough to encompass the majority is going to yield a similar result of the same number.

I see many quit claim deeds that show up in the county records but not sure if this encompasses an inherited deed as well as a cash sale.

-We have shifted over to buying properties directly into LLC, however, we have to use commercial loans and our loans all encompass at least 5 units (5 units & 16 units).

The best advice I can recommend is to find yourself a good fee based financial planner (full disclosure:  I am a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER(TM) who will take the time to get to know you and your situation, your goals, and who will help you craft a plan that encompasses all of the different areas of financial planning.Good luck on your journey and I hope this helps.Ed 

It encompasses many variables and can be used for fixed FHA and conventional loans.