Cool that ya was a carpet tech. What company did you work for?
As for getting tm and van, either save or get a equipment loan for used stuff. There are plenty of setup under $20k for sale if ya check out carpet cleaning barter and sales on Facebook. Just look around. Get to hustling.
As for portable, that is what i started out with and used over 3 years. I dont have much love for it. Still, its responsible for adding $200 and more to the ticket. That’s why i am rarely under $500 a day. Portable is definitely an easy way to get started and significantly cheaper. But you do what ya gotta do
Now i am buying a used 2001 express van with a completely rebuilt TM. New Kohlr 29 hp with new 47 blower and 3500psi pump and 120 gallon waste tank. I am stoked. Finding that van was just good timing for the price i am getting.