Properties #1 and #3 are cash flow negative if I use the 50% rule. 

My goal is to build a portfolio that for passive income that will support my family and give me an option for income if I decide to get out. 

If you do its a local jurisdiction rule and you could check with someone at your county and municipality level for the most accurate answer to that question. 

Because of the training and support a new agent receives.

Rents can achieve the minimum 1% rule but only outside of major centers.I would be looking to invest out west or down east.

Some people disregard these rules, but that id tax fraud if you are audited.

The old rule of thumb is that you want at least 30% equity to give you room for repairs, holding costs, sales costs while still earning a profit.

You should also account for vacancy, a good rule of thumb is to use a conservative number of 8% (30 days out of 365)3. 

I can tell from the forum rules that I'm safe asking newbie questions here, which I very much appreciate.

@James FainSee the following for the 401k loan rules. https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-pl...See the following regarding the 401k distribution rules.https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-particip...