(I know that is not guaranteed and is purely speculative, which I'm trying to avoid).I think with the right deal I'd lean towards the duplex at this point because I like the higher cash flow and the idea of having someone still there to help pay the mortgage during a vacancy.

I used to invest in stocks ( still own some) Individual stocks I believe to be more speculative vs a Mutual fund or a index fund (which fools advocate) I prefer something tangible and something I have "Some" control over that is why I like real estate.I agree, they seem to assume zero learning.

Anything else isn't investing, it's speculating.

Any projected appreciation is going to be speculative.

You are right, but in the end it is that professional's opinion based on speculation.

Again, quit speculating, and READ THE CLERK'S FILE WHERE THE NOTICES WERE SENT, AND SIGNED RETURN RECEIPTS are on file, or just wait for the outcome.

Part of me thinks I should just pick it up first and worry about the rest later (speculation), but the other part of me thinks maybe not because it might be difficult to rent.

They may have been emerging a decade ago.Barrie is on the outskirts of the GTA and being dragged along for the speculative ride.Now, if we get the long over-needed correction to our real estate market and these areas receive a 20-30% haircut, you might find value.

I would never buy only based on speculation, I'd like the fundamentals to be good as well, which is why I wanted your opinions.The owner hadn't expressed seller financing, but I want to start using it as a second offer if I can't negotiate an all cash deal for a rehab or wholesale.

Hi all, Just getting started here, experienced real estate investor since 2002 - land speculation and flipping - North Shore Oahu, Upstate New York and West Coast of Florida (2002 to 2005).