I personally have decided to avoid the stock market and build a stream of income off of rentals, SS and a couple nice safe annuities!

The stress of trying to acquire right now may end up causing you to make even bigger mistakes down stream as your focus was getting to the closing table and not worrying about beyond that moment.

For investors, better income is about finding another income stream. 

Sell a stream of rental income to a note investor.

I have collected enough to cover all expenses, and principle keeps racking up with the interest so in theory, some day, it will be a nice little capital stream coming in.

The benefit I like the most is that it silos the assets and in most circumstances, a loss in one won't spill over to the other assets.

Like you mentioned he gets an income stream.

Because it has a rental suite down in the corner, we are net paid to live here after all expenses- taxes, insurance, maintenance,  repairs and all utilities down to our phones, streaming subscriptions and internet.  

This can generate a steady stream of income with minimal involvement on your part.As you explore these options, be sure to do your due diligence and seek advice from professionals like real estate agents, attorneys, and financial advisors.

My guess is that if your parents will pay for it, and you choose a high ROI degree, like economics, computer science, etc. that you will have a high ROI investment that will give you a great income stream to borrow against in real estate investing, a great backup option to real estate if things get tough, or you hurt your back and need a desk job, and you might even find something you like.