Is it easy to set up with Nest thermostats?

Perhaps shadow a top producer in your office, After that stability and you have a nest egg.

Rates are going to start to fall in or aroud May/June of this year so by the time you have purchase the nest home you can do a "Rate & Term" refiance and lower the rate on the first home. 

But, what’s the best strategy for someone who wants to own property, but just as an “aside”; to diversify their portfolio, hedge against inflation, or build a retirement nest egg?

We have a strict budget in place and will be saving ~$4-5k a month once debt is paid off, but do not an investible nest egg yet.

Great nest egg. 

I'm really excited about the potential of investing in residential multifamily properties with my dad, who's willing to contribute the initial funds.We're currently working on getting our financial house in order, paying off debt, and building a solid nest egg.

I am 100% ok with my w2 providing me income to maintain my life and grow a nest egg for the later aspect of life  

Or, plan on this being a nest egg builder and growing your equity, living in the home for 2 of the last 5 years and then selling with Section 121 exclusion. 

Hey @Camille Romero - fellow NY'r here that started investing a few years ago, I was in your same shoes when I first started after working in tech/software and having a nice nest egg built up.