I have 3 ( 1 condo +2 townhome) rental and one primary home (single family ) all in San Diego and for my rental portfolio of buying with my own money i am done.

Twice now, small homes that would be perfect have LEASES locked in through July 2025.

Begin your real estate investing adventure by educating yourself, identifying your goals, and deciding whether to invest in rental homes, fix-and-flip, or commercial real estate.

Or save for another home downpayment? 

The rental market is very stable and there are options for renting your place to other Americans if you purchase a home and live their during your tour and rent it out after you leave.

My husband and I have remodeled homes we live  in while working full time. 

Sorry for the lack of good advice but we are in one of the biggest home sales droughts in U.S. history so it’s just a tough market. 

As a side note for education expense, you may deduct education that maintains or improves your current job skills or that is required by law or your employer - as long as the education does not qualify you for a new business. 

If you're a first time home buyer ideally you'd want to take advantage of some of the FTHB community bank mortgages.   

You would be responsible for all other maintenance and upkeep of your home, including managing the cleaning crew.