And if you do this prior to normal retirement age penalties would also apply. 

It doesn't mean the least amount of competition necessarily, but rather what cities are flourishing right now, is there trends happening in the south with the boomer population reaching retirement ages,  are the wealthy flocking somewhere, etc.

You should be retired by 30.

I have 4 rentals under rehab right now, and at most times, and I have been "retired" for 20 years.

Having a few challenges on financing right now since I have a 0 credit rating believe it or not was done deliberately because of identity theft in 2000 now have to rebuild it too.Long term goals I’m 58 so wanting to retire or semi retire in next 10 years not really wanting rental projects unless I meet a great property management team exception to that is I want storage rental maybe a few of them.

I'm a retired veteran and wonder are there programs out there that will assist veterans when it comes to borrowing money to purchase real estate for profit.

I have a great management firm, would actually be buying these from the owner of the firm who is retiring, they are all updated and rented, that would handle all transactions for me.  

I like the retirement contribution option what-ifs I can play at year end. 

Filipino parents: "Go to school, find a good job, work 16 hours a day, retire at 65."

I also have some relatives in the rehab business  and even one very successful "house hacker" in the family who until BP I didn't even know that was a word (lol).I retired from the U.S.