Is this a practice that most would not recommend except for niche markets or is this an at least somewhat feasible strategy for short term rentals?

. :( I’ve been searching for PSI practice exams and heard about Exam Smart.

That is especially true with the tax law change that went into effect this year; the standard deduction nearly doubled, so the taxes you save by itemizing might be much less than they were in the past (in other words, because you are getting a larger benefit through the larger standard deduction the "cost" of not having the mortgage interest deduction might be less).I can see an argument for there being better uses for your money than to pay off a mortgage with a 5.5% interest rate (if you can make an investment that pays at least 6% for example), but if your quality of life will improve because you paid off your debt and are now "financially independent" then that is what you should do.

As a means to building wealth, however, there is no practical substitute for homeownership.”

Great story, keep your expenses in line, improve the property, keep it occupied and you're all set!

I'm just taking what I've learned from what I was reading and putting it into practice.

Pre-marriage property can be treated differently, depending on your money practices (such as commingling v. separating money) and CA law.

This is because the 90 hr licensing course only teaches you about a tenth of what you need to know to adequately practice real estate. 

Use your knowledge to start analyzing properties to get practice.

That's a great saying for gurus from the front of the room, not a practice for real life.Congrats on all your successes and your tremendous life lessons.