We all learn.

This all depends on your tax bracket, state, marital status, etc.

My concern is that all of my info is coming from the agency and I do not know how to find and evaluate properties/deals yet on my own.

I'm here to grow, learn, and connect with you all, especially if you are in the San Diego area, please feel free to contact me anytime.

Any and all advice, suggestions welcome!

There are a ridiculous number of options, and all have success stories and horror stories. 

Before you say 'you should have the money to get into a contract' I normally wouldn't be in this situation but I've just closed on a property that was all cash 2 weeks ago and a friend calls me on a property that's truly an amazing deal that I want to get into contract (has stable tenants renewing contracts above market, I can get for under market).

@Tayvion Payton - All great feedback.

And don't forget the other component of real estate investing you lose in an exit - depreciation.  

@Ben Whittingtoni hear you and that all makes sense... if you don't have that much liquid, though, I think it will probably be a huge, huge grind.