In addition to numerous tradition RE related investments (most individually owned but some as LP), here are our unusual investments (both are RE related, but not what is common on this site)- I have mentioned this one a few times on BP, when fracking was just starting to be known to the general public (near turn of century), we purchased mineral rights in North Dakota.  

Or in other words, the rent received from house hacking would cover our housing costs (mortgage, property tax, insurance, repairs, utilities).Upon research however Oahu seem to be a high cost and low cap rate area similar to SF where we currently live.

Sometimes it’s the hard money lender sometimes it could be someone elsePlease also note most hard money lenders also can seek a deficiency judgment which is the balance owed on the loan after it is sold at saleIf you are a borrower you can also work out a deed in lieu which is when you give it to them without going through this processWe recently received $200M in these types of defaulted loans to bid on, so we are starting to see and uptick in defaults.Memphis area had over 50 on the list.

With $20k in savings and an additional $4k monthly saving rate, I'm navigating my next steps carefully, especially since I value starting with a substantial equity position in any deal.Here are the options I'm contemplating:Invest in a Low Entry Property: With my capacity for a 20% down payment, I'm considering properties in the $100k-$120k range.

I do not know the source of their funding but if they received donations for aids and are using it for this, then that would seem to be inappropriate use of funds.  

I've done my best to research the process but wanted to get additional guidance.

Additionally, Ohio's generally landlord-friendly legal environment, compared to Philadelphia, makes it an appealing investment location.

Additionally, consider partnering with a HML.

All of the other comments are great, I will just add one piece of additional advice, decide what you want your investment to look like five years from now.

If there is a fire and you haven't set up your insurance properly you could be in for a big surprise and not receive a payout.6.