However we’d probably be downsizing to a 5th wheel temporarily on a family members property with a baby and 2 dogs.

That is why I love real estate because the small-time guy or girl with hustle can still when because there are pockets of inefficiency everywhere.

I have changed my policies to allow dogs which attracts a few more guests than I expected.  

. - After a couple of weeks of moving in, one of her relative visited and brought a dog.

Overhanging trees4. dogs on the restricted list5. older plumbing/electrical/heating/roof6. proper emergency lighting7.

It was a real under-dog story.

Put that to good use- you obviously have lots of time to learn and read to prepare yourself to hit the ground running when you are 18.You could also find other people wholesaling in the markets you are interested in and be their bird-dog, bring them deals for a split or even a wage. 

Call every bird dog sign you see and see if they have any deals.

I charge $25 "pet rent" per month, per pet in one of my units because they have a dog and 2 cats.

While the depreciation benefits of real estate are real and nice, one should not let the tail wag the dog.