This is not possible.

The stock market is the only way to financial independence.

Real Estate is for losers. :D

Unfortunately these days, it is. RE is going nowhere for 30-40 years.

Respectfully, I think you've still got blinders on from your experience in a bubble state (CA). I personally don't worry too much about fluctuations in equities or RE...the income streams provided (dividends/rent) are cash cows. RE was/is a diversification hedge for me, and I prefer a multifaceted approach: No debt, several diverse income streams (most increasing over time), and knowing that I've got others to tap further down the line works for me...I don't even count/plan on SS, that'll be gravy.

When QE3 and QE4 hit, USD values Real Estate will go up. But then, so will gold, etc....

That's the thing - on paper everything will be wonderful as far as RE values go but in terms of who can afford it, the upkeep, energy costs, etc? Not NEARLY as lucrative as in years past. The entire asset class is in the schitter - commercial, residential (single-family, multi-family, condo, etc) and is so overbuilt its going nowhere fast.

The entire US economy is GOING to be weighed down by RE for decades. No question in my mind at all. Add skyrocketing inflation (which is coming) to the equation and good luck breaking even, much less making any money in it.