I'm prepared to walk away if it just doesn't make sense anymore but feel as though I could use the advice of more seasoned investors on this. 

Does anyone have any tips on how to buy my first property without paying all in cash?

Hi Nail, I might be able to help you since I've been investing in the area for many years now so feel free to send me a direct message.

However, I feel like there's a lot of potential to run into a lot of walls/pitfalls that can cost a ton of time/money if I do this route.At the end of the day, I want to put a lot of emphasis on using the newest technologies to streamline the business as much as possible. 

@Will Gaston is a wealth of information and very prudent/knowledgeable investor, he was just helping me with some lending info yesterday.Don't be a stranger, feel free to reach out. 

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need any advice as you get started.

I did do a cash out refi to get my Corte Madera home, which is its saving grace that makes me feel better) but on this rental now with my mortgage, property tax, HOA fees, and insurance my 2023 was negative. 

I'm eager to hear if other investors make it a priority to diversify into other markets (I think my neighborhoods in STL will continue to have demand, but nothing is a given), and if you feel there's more of a return to be had with the same amount of effort by scaling up into commercial properties or apartment complexes.

What are your favorite resources or tips for continuous learning and expanding your network in the real estate industry?

I know this is not the popular opinion on BP, but this is the reality if you make investment decisions based on the metrics you are prioritizing.