One smart thing could be renting and then using all the money you would put down and lay out into various syndicated deals just need to find a good sponsor. The sponsor ive done a few with has not disappointed.

This was the return for a bit less than 2 years on this one and had a couple more with them like it to as well as others with other sponsors in the 20-30 range as well for about 20 deals I have done so far. The lower layout of capital lets me take less risk per property and diversify all over the US as well but there are draw backs like less control but the idea of renting and buying rentals either way is one that is a interesting way of doing it to if you can find a good trustworthy and talented group.