@Frankie Woods  I'm mainly interested in multi-family as my tenants would be under one roof and I feel that I'd be able to pay the property off quicker due to multiple rents. 

Is there a strategy on getting these houses under contract much quicker?

He argued it'll be paid down quicker, but I argue that I can just make extra payments on the principle if I want that and I won't need to worry about a commercial loan eating my cash flow either because it's my option as to whether I want to pay extra or not.

Psychologically, studies show, paying down the balances that you can pay off more quickly in most people's cases actually lead to quicker debt elimination.  

That's a great way to get into the game quicker!

Maybe the area is appreciating much quicker than you expected.I'd be happy to reno and rent. 

And I want to play this as safe as possible while trying to gain momentum in paying the debt even quicker.

If you can get another one or two in the mix, you will be able to pay off 1 house within 2 years and the cash flow only increases.This would help to pay more properties off quicker. 

Buying apartment complexes will help you to get where you are going much quicker. 

It is hard for me to walk away from a cash-flowing property but I also feel that I may be missing out on an opportunity to make some cash to invest in more things quicker.