There's a much lower cost per door in the suburbs of Portland and a lot of opportunity to grow those rents and the core becomes more and more expensive. 

You could contribute enough to get the match, let's say 4% from you and your employer (8% total contributions), but your 401k loses 6% one year, resulting in growth of only 2%.During a good year, maybe it grows by 16% (=8% investment gain on your 4% contribution and 4% match).Alternatively, you could keep the entire 401k account in cash (not invested in any securities) and let it grow at the matching rate, guaranteed like a CD.If you forecast out to retirement, based on what you plan to contribute, do you anticipate that your 401k will be your primary source of retirement income? 

@Greg Scott I've spoken to mortgage one and they only do personal mortgages, how are you able to scale past the mortgage limit and grow your portfolio? 

So with $50k I would start by putting that into a solid 2-4 unit small multi family deal and as your investment grows overtime, gradually work your way up to larger multifamily deals such as a 12-24 unit.

Let's help each other grow and make it a win-win situation.

Entities become more important as your portfolio grows (to significant net worth).

These forums have been invaluable as a tool, and I appreciate everyone's time.Yes commercial and multifamily are the best way to grow and scale.

Look for properties that have excellent cash flow, and buy in bigger growing cities where the demand is increasing, so that you can maybe see some appreciation, but don't factor it into your calculations.  

@Erik SchofieldCongratulations on the growing family and for taking charge of your future!

Markets with growing populations and jobs and important to the long term return on your investment.