However your returns are probably even lower if you factor in upcoming major expenses like an hvac or roof replacement.It really depends on your goals. 

Now I'm venturing off on my own in search of building up my own investment portfolio.

He then sold the lots cheap to homebuyers, negotiated with a lender to provide mortgage financing, and teamed with a builder who would build simple, inexpensive homes.

you're building equity.2. good appreciation and high cash flow - well, we'd all love that! 

The appealing aspect here is the ongoing population growth and other economic factors.

I’ve started off with buying equity in a new build that cash flows as a mid term rental.

We have our own personal home, but are interested in the idea of having some rental properties to generate additional income and build wealth. 

So I suppose there are 3 routes, you can reach out directly to suppliers to try to build a relationship, use a service like Minoan, or join a buyers group and just reap discounts.

From what I understand, it can be a lucrative way to build wealth over time.

Unless you plan to pair it with a construction division or can build out a brokerage and the property management is utilized to bring in and/or retain business, it's not a great business to be in if you plan to manage 3rd party assets.