Will also allow you to manage intro conversations better with other agents when you are looking for deals as an investor.

Moreover, waiting for rates to lower further might not necessarily translate into better deals.

I'm in the Tahoe market and the cost of entry is high and yet 30 minutes away in Reno, NV the cost is much lower and the returns are better. 

Then, you're likely better to stay as close to home as possible until you get your feet wet. 

are there areas where condo's are better then houses? 

Would reaching out to a real estate lawyer or architect be better to see if it's possible to convert to a legal apt?

These are currently on sale on Amazon.Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers - $125.99    https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016PATXSIThese are the better series above the 12XX series.

Many experienced investors advise that it’s better to spend time (for the rookie) trying to do deals than worrying about asset protection.  

So I was $700/mo to the good and only getting better.

I think the better question would be how much management capacity you’ll have once you start a family—as in how much time you’ll have to devote to your properties.