@Mike H. the 100% COC applies every year, and probably every month you contribute to the 401K on the contributed amount. i.e. 1K contributed in year 1 gets a 1K match in year 1, additional 1K contributed in year two gets a 1k match in year two. I view it as COC because although its not being pocketed so to speak, its certainly in an account held in your name, so at the minimum, your net wealth is increasing.
I would also challenge you on the "tax free" income. yes in that year its tax free but there in another side to depreciation that will be paid back to the IRS when you sell, unless you intend to live in the house for 2 years prior to selling (probably going to change soon based on the tax reform bill).
I agree, housing market will go down just as fast as the stock market in another 08 scenario.
To your point, no one is saying the stock market is better than real estate. I mean none of us would be here if we believed it was lol. I tend to agree with the age old expression "don't put all your eggs in one basket". this new tax bill is a prime example of why. they are proposing numerous changes that can and will impact returns for RE investors who invest in certain ways. it would suck if all your eggs were in buy and hold rentals and they decided to change the way your rental income was taxed. hence why you should diversify.
If what your doing works for you and your risk profile, then who am I to tell you no. for me personally, I sleep better at night knowing that my investments are scattered through many different asset classes.
