I would like to build a rental portfolio but I'm not sure if going "big" is the best way to get started.

I hope to build a nice portfolio in the coming years

If you have a multi-million portfolio you should definitely diversify across many asset classes.Mike 

Simple.A portfolio deal should have had 10%-20% down.

those items can come into play as your portfolio expands.to start, simply find find a decent property that isn't too overwhelming and learn by doing. 

I know I can't have everything set up and most likely things will change as I grow my portfolio, but I want to be as best prepared as possible. 

I found it through my realtor, who introduced me to the owner who had a number of auction investment properties in her portfolio.

I found it through my realtor, who introduced me to the owner who had a number of auction investment properties in her portfolio.

however it is rare you get a fire after all the homes we have had I think we have had maybe 3.. when I had my big rental portfolio I was just about to go to self insurance.. at 200 to 300 homes in the low value asset areas self insurance for fire becomes very cost effective when its private equity and no bank.  

If you have access to such opportunities in your network, then you have the potential to grow your savings more successfully than in a conventional portfolio.