For a reasonable interest rate, knowing today’s markets.

After an intro call and vision board, intro to strategic lending partner, four physical tours, two offers on two properties (with the second accepted below asking price) a quick inspection with (minor inspection issues resolved by seller), appraisal waiver and below market rate lock..

>but quickly realized that trading time for money wasn’t going to be enough if I wanted to create wealth while living in California.I think you are entering a tough market.  2.5 years ago (before interest rates doubled)  it was a much easier market.  

Columbus is a great market to invest in!

Are you in a market where the costs of the necessary capex is cost prohibitive?

Anything can happen: the market can shift, we can go into another extended lockout period, the property can be destroyed by a natural disaster or by vandalism, the list of contingencies is endless.

For flipping you have to be in a viable market that produces such opportunity. 

After I close I will still have 30k in immediate cash and I have stock market investments that are another 30k, so even more frustrating that it's not even a monetary issue

For a comprehensive view of the Las Vegas investment market, message me for my blog link.

Leverage traditional financing initially, and as you approach your goal of 10 properties, explore options like HELOCs, DSCR loans, or hard money loans.