@Mekei Coleman becoming a real estate agent may be an area to explore further, it doesn't require much physical activity.

I have five kids and we've made some pretty big sacrifices to move towards financial freedom and full-time real estate investing (not there yet).

I might start with all tenants responsible for their own garbage/recycling while further exploring a small dumpster and while I appreciate that most tenants should be fine being responsible with their garbage I have one tenant that I know will not and she could cause a huge issue.

We're also tied down by my wife's job and the fact that we have kids.

With my price range that's another reason I am exploring all over MA as well, not only Worcester to Boston, until i build more equity (Of course I feel Worcester has a lot of potential though, so getting properties here for a good price would be beneficial).

I do not currently have any, but I would not mind atleast exploring that option.What market are you in?

I am in my late 20s with 2 kids. 

If you aren't exactly sure on your criteria and want to explore, it's best to at least set a broad criteria in markets so you can compare between markets to see which one best suits you.An example: I'm interested in small multifamily investing so I will target markets which have a surplus of small multifamily properties to start off.

Honestly...I am looking for all avenues to explore that helps me NOT have to move out...whether that involves me buying this place somehow, or doing some type of creative deal with an investor...I am open to whatever works.

I'd also get the ages of the kids.