It is simply a form of diversification into an asset class allowed by IRS rules, but not sold by Wall St.  

I understand geographic diversification; is that what you are trying to do?

I like to think of diversification.

I'm more invested in stocks than Real Estate as a diversification play.

I do currently reside in Chicago, IL but do plan to return to my home town of Dallas in the next 2 to 3 years in which I plan on investing in real estate (my next entrepreneurial adventure...and a way to fund new ventures as well)...diversification is key!

Multi's can be great for cash-flow and risk diversification but do have a different form of risk than other types for residential housing.

other than 08 to 2010 ish  buying has always been very competitive in our market. nothing new.. on that score.. or at least from the middle 90S when Oregon transformed officially from a Timber and AG based economy to one of high tech and diversification.

For example the diversification you receive with owning 4 different units may prove to be more beneficial.

I invest in the stock market as well - in fact a good portion of my income from Real Estate goes into the stock market as I like diversification but if I could only choose one it would be Real Estate..Chris

One of them is putting on a webinar this Tuesday night you can check out .Another company I met with offers passive investors opportunities to buy into and co-own with the Managers portfolios of 10 rental properties for instant diversification and total hands off investment.