I'm open to all ideas and criticism.

I think it is critical for you to build up a track record, get experience, etc regardless of what order you proceed in. 

But after a while  -- in my case it took more than ten years-- you reach a critical mass and many more possibilities open up.

If you go the appreciation route, it's critical not to just do it blindly--make sure you know exactly why you think a particular property should appreciate and by how much.

Know how to take constructive criticism.

It'll be a sink-or-swim proposition, but that which doesn't kill you makes you stronger.She may find it's not her thing, but being able to talk to a lot of people is critical for getting deals done.Math on investment RE is not that hard to learn - Really. 

If you're a single mom with student loans, a car payment, and living paycheck-to-paycheck, then $20,000 would be devastating and a reserve is critical.

A successful comedian, and a professional critic trained in the classical arts, both go to rate a painting.

Some of the most critical elements to understand are the timeline for investment realization (example: 5-10-20++ years) the leverage and borrowing capacity and the age, income and portfolio of the investor.Investments and lives change.

Of course reliability and reputation are critical factors as well.Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!