First of all, it takes time. Here is one way that an "average" income earner can get started:
👉The first home you purchase isn't a dream home. It's a home with an income suite in the basement. You live in the main floor or basement suite and rent out the other suite.
👉Put a little sweat equity into the home (paint, landscaping, etc.). Take care of the property. Use the income that you're generating from the income suite for home renos or to put lump sum payments on the mortgage.
👉When you have enough equity in the home, refinance for up to 80% of the value of the home. Use that cash from the refinance for a down payment on a second property.
👉Purchae the 2nd property with as little as 5% down with another income suite. Move into the second property. Rent out the 1st property (now you have 2 suites in one property and 1 suite rented in the other property).
👉Your bills from your 1st property are paid for, and you are cash flowing a few hundred dollars/month. Half of your bills from your 2nd property are paid by the income suite. Not a bad gig.
👉Repeat.
Remember that real estate investing is hard work. Everyone starts somewhere.