I have known since I was a kid that real estate investing would be a great financial path and have set out with the intent to purchase an investment property multiple times over the past 15 years, but never jumped in.

As a kid, I had a little handheld, battery-powered antenna TV with a 2" screen.

The lenders that I worked with, didnt care about my age besides the fact that they were stoked to see a young kid get into real estate.

I was thinking about running a hardwood type fake flooring to go throughout the house or should I put rugs in the bedrooms?  What type of flooring do you use please.  Thank you, Gary

This is an area I believe not often explored and has led many to waste a lot of time waiting to refinance or worst waiting for appreciation, while great cash cow deals pass them by weeks after weeks, months after months, years after years. 

Not considering passing any of this in inheritence (no kids, plans) so i just need to maximize my returns.What is a good estimate to use regarding retirement funding from both rental property and 401k?

I think "Buying and Selling Real Estate" might be a good area, but don't hesitate to explore around for a better forum.

Now I want to get his game for my kids to play so they can learn early!

There is some lakefront probably worth exploring. 

Not an accountant or cpa but there are many ways to reduce taxable income if you have a business such as paying kids to do some work and make sure you account properly for expenses.