Couple of tickets to a temperance event (pre prohibition).

Back during my days in the navy, financial troubles was a ticket to loosing one's security clearance and bankruptcy could possibly mean a discharge.

Also, spot any big ticket items (HVAC, appliances, cabinets, bathroom stuff, etc) that may need replacing or repairing. 

A plane ticket out here will show you the difference.

From friends and colleagues that live/rent in NYC, the bulk of owners/landlords of smaller properties in Manhattan tend to be long-term owners (eg; have owned the property for 20, 30+ years).From an investment perspective, the price in the outer boroughs coupled with the still extremely high demand for rentals makes it a no-brainer if you can afford the entry ticket.

If you have to buy a plane ticket and stay in a hotel , thats 700 bucks.  

I've been on the fence about going Pro here at BP.... but I think, you guys are the ticket for us right now.

few reasons-Landlord want to sell the properties after appreciation-minimal cash flow-problem with renters-upcoming big ticket deferred maintenance

The same goes with plane tickets - once you're on the plane, a coach ticket to New Zealand feels the same regardless of whether you bought it at Fred's House 'o' Cheap Flights or from a full service travel agent.A house is completely different.

I learned the cost of big-ticket items such as roofing, windows, and flooring.