Seattle area: buy more now or wait for downturn?

[Jack B.]

Most economists are in agreement that we should be heading into another downturn in 2018. This seems to hold true from my own personal observations as well; there does appear to be a downturn every few years almost like clock work.

But that is still more than two years away. Does it make sense to buy a couple more now and deal with the downturn or should I pool cash and wait?

Problem is the cash is losing money sitting. Maybe I should split the difference? I can buy two more with cash on hand, not counting reserves. This would provide me with four rental properties and a primary, all of which cash flow and appreciate well. Of course, the first three I bought during the down turn do the best but these others would still be making me money.

After that though, I could just pool a couple hundred k while I wait and if there is a downturn, I'll buy in again with even more.