I would just say study the MLS closely and make sure you feel confident about the end sale price, and what the market is doing, right now...

The problem with these articles is they throw out a "case study" and then follow it up with a series of ridiculous conclusions.

Don - You are very right, and you all should look at my post on the Over the Rhine area as it is a pretty interesting case study of sorts, literally the definition of gentrification (if the rennaisance continues).

Much of what is learned is a waste of time, but there are some core subjects worth studying prior to putting real money in play.

Study the forums so you will be set up for your next purchase.

So your study is entirely correct for me.

Original authors Martin Bailey, Douglas Elmendorf and Robert Litan (May 2008) The Great Credit Squeeze: How It Happened, How to Prevent Another Economics Studies at Brookings, Washington.

Learning, studying, and birddogging are great ways to get started in REI.

How long did you study and analyze before you "pulled the trigger?"

Almost certainly.Read and study this business.