You only need to put 3.5% down, so cashwise it won't get in the way of other real estate goals you may have.My first deal was a 4-unit up I bought with FHA 3.5% in Santa Clarita.I lived for free (as opposed to paying rent) + enjoyed cash flow + built equity.

That may give more options-seller financing, 1031 for the real estate, etc. but it is hard to help without more goal details.

Goal: Looking to cash-flow at least $100/month after all costs and expenses.

I always love meeting real estate investors that have the same goals as me.

If it is hard, that means your stretching and growing to be the ever more successful version of you.I would say attend the local events and make a goal of walking up to a certain number of people and introducing yourself.

TBH you should probably build out your own that includes your own investment criteria rather than use another investors who has different goals and most likely invest in a different market with different systemic and asymmetric risks.

The 1031 option into something bigger that will cash flow might not be a bad option but it depends on what your goals are too (appreciation or cash flow).  

Remember that the ultimate goal is cash-flow, not getting a cheap deal.

Im intelligent enough to know saving money will not get us to the goal we have.

From what I am reading/learning, I believe my goals best align with a buy-and-hold strategy for continuing cash flow (BRRRR?).