Like Walt said, reading a bunch of threads here will give you some ideas. You are in no rush. Also, just because the calculators are saying you will be 50 before you reach FI doesn't mean it can't happen sooner. Look at some other possible revenue streams/side gigs that might accelerate your path to FI.
A simple example would be becoming a referee: I've been a soccer ref for years. I stopped when we made our most recent move, but I'm looking to pick it back up again come January. I get paid really pretty good money to run around the field (good exercise) and do something I enjoy. It isn't for everyone, but it is a pretty easy way to boost income. On an average Saturday morning, I would work three games and make anywhere from $100 to $200.
I know your question was about when and how to get into real estate investing, but that sounds like it is a long ways off. Right now I would look at simpler and less risky ways to increase your income while you continue to work your expenses down.