Rather, you have to find what works best for your situation and goals.

My main goals for getting into RE investing is that I'd like to retire by 40/45 (if possible) and have the freedom of not having to work for corporate America.Hoping I can learn a lot from this community and start my path for financial freedom!

Sounds like a realistic goal.

I think it all depends on long term goals.

As someone who has done tens of millions of dollars worth of real estate deals and millions of dollars worth of crypto investing, I see no good reason to combine the two at this point in time, unless the goal is to commit federal tax crimes. 

If the deal makes sense and meets your goals (CoC, cash flow, etc...) you should make the purchase.

Prioritise your financial goals for the next 5 years.

We had a goal of building our own house in five years.

Their first goal is to have longterm tenants so they work hard on customer service.

I would say the answer depends what your goals are If your goal is to get to 40 units in 5 years, then you will need to take on a lot of debt to get there.