Please share any info on local meet ups, events and or any tips to assist me along this journey!!

Why not take a bet each way?

A lease with a separate option to purchase is a safe bet because if his property doesn't close and he can't 1031 into yours you will at worst have to evict him. 

My wife and I live in Eugene, Oregon and are starting on our real estate journey.

I am currently in the coaching and networking stage as I begin this journey.

@Shay SinghAs a first time investor, start with single family rentals. you can buy using turnkey or MLS route.your local area can present opportunities and you can join local REA groups to educate yourself more.Recession in housing market is given and if you are tapping your line of credit as a down payment, you are leveraged to the hilt. to make $4k net a month, you will need to generate $6k after prop mgt fees and keep a cushion of $2k a month for repairs.real estate investing is great but have to acknowledge that repairs are always needed as you scale portfolios.look into midwest and midsouth areas. lot of reputable turnkey providers and realtors on BP. i am sure you will connect to the right source and start your journey.

Local credit unions going to be your best bet with someone keeping the loans in house.

You have a long journey ahead.Aggressively save money and buy a Multifamily 2-4 units with 3.5% FHA loan and house hack.

. $1000 bet says the seller would not be happy if they knew EXACTLY what happened on this deal:)

Excited for the journey!