I love writing code, but at some level, I know it's a distraction from making my first deal, which is essential to breaking down the barriers and achieving my goals.I'm searching for an individual or group to help guide me through purchasing my first property.

Once you figure out your niche and what you like, then taking an existing business to the next level is what coaching and a paid mentor is for.

At that lower rent level, I would also stipulate that I would handle all maintenance issues.  

I highly recommend joining at their Platinum level; it's pricey at $1550 for membership that includes both VRBO and HomeAway and many of their other sites, but membership level is the #1 factor in determining your placement in their search results.

In theory rents will partially keep pace with inflation so they will escalate while your fixed-rate note (P&I portion...not TI portion) will remain level. I

Every activity you do should contribute to achieving that.There is research you should be conducting and specific things you should be evaluating at a state level, market/city level and neighborhood level.  I

I feel like the only/best way to acquaint myself with the business at an entry level is by becoming an agent first.

My risk level is my primary determining factor.

@Jennifer Hwang , I would rent to this person.To me income and debt level is more important than credit score.

If there is no other legitimate reason to deny an applicant, you must submit to the process (which, according to the cases in the link, means even submitting to their lease requirements even if you object to some of the terms ... infuriating on every level I can think of).