For the most part this is to "keep up with the joneses" and impress the customer.  

I have aquired equity in the home and the thought of using said equity to start investing in real estate has crossed my mind. 

I want to develop associations with those who can see the value in my association and help me get started with investing.

I started my career with the LA County Assessor.

@Allen Bannister first off, I'm a HUGE proponent of house hacking with a 5% conventional mortgage--I've done it myself many times, and it's arguably the BEST way to get started in REI, so good choice!

Any kind of paint will start to peel and fall off rather quick.

I have been in my home for 7 years and have accumulated some equity and wouldn't mind using this to buy a rental 

I'm new to real estate investing, and I'm seeking to learn and start investing for income generation and wealth building.

I am reaching out to see if anyone may have some suggestions on which small markets across the country (City or State) that may be a good place to start looking for deals here in 2024?

I know it's only been a few days but wondering your impression so far