So everything hinges on appreciation, which could come back with inflation.Primary residences are often not good rental assets.

If you are trying to raise a few hundred thousand to buy another 4-6 unit property, while I would not invest in someone with less than a year experience, I am guessing some of your pilot friends, other friends, or family members may be willing to chip in.Now, if you want to jump from a triplex to 80 units, raising 4-5mm of equity and another 4-5mm in debt, than I would just manage your expectations. 

Investment Info:Single-family residence buy & hold investment.

One thing to consider since you are a California resident investing is the compliance requirements for LLCs incorporated in California or operating as a foreign entity here - the rules here are different than most states.  

Leverage equity, explore house hacking, and continue learning through books, podcasts, and local networking to refine your strategy.

From what I read (last week when someone else asked a similar question), only foreigners who are permanent residences or some of those here on work visas are allowed to buy a home. 

In Denver metro area, for instance, the city of Denver only allows short-term rentals in a primary residence.

For my personal residence - yes, i would love to own it free and clear as it's not an investment but rather liability which I want to minimize as much as possible.  

Investment Info:Single-family residence other investment.

I'm going to exclude my personal residence from this because I don't view this as an investment, I need a place to live.Excluding my primary residence my current breakdown is 47% real estate 53% stocks/cash.