My biggest question when I was researching all the programs was "If these people are so successful at what they do, why are they charging so much for all of this and always trying to upsell?" 

I would suggest focusing on solving people's problems more than trying to sell them.

He teaches people to build small, but productive, portfolios.

I have an idea of an initial investment and returns I would like to hit, but would love to speak with those of actual experience to see if my numbers are realistic.

Hopefully the permitting people are nice and will offer some guidance.  

I've listened to a lot of BP podcasts and other real estate youtubers, but most of those people invest in places where real estate prices are 3 or 4x what they are here.

This is the max it seems most "A" lenders will loan too, I might get 50% from a credit union but that still probably not help in the short term.How do people keep going?

Loan to value ratio: The higher the loan to value ratio (LTV) is, pricing takes a hit.

Quote from @Patrick Albright: You could look at doing a 1031 Exchange to avoid any tax hits this year. there is no tax. 

There are too many people selling you on how easy, passive, and lucrative real estate investing is.I always tell people the first year or two will be bumpy.