In today's high volatility environment, most investors I talk to are seeking ways to insulate themselves from volatility using alternative investment vehicles and RE funds are a good venue for that.Cons:Typical REIT strategy is investing in class-A assets in core markets, where assets trade in the 4-5% cap rate range.

(Wiki)Benefit Corporations are a new class of corporation that 1) creates a material positive impact on society and the environment; 2) expands fiduciary duty to require consideration of non-financial interests when making decisions; and 3) reports on its overall social and environmental performance using recognized third party standards.

It creates a great environment.

Warren Buffet once said something along the lines of farmers need not understand the bio-chemistry of the photosynthesis process to grow corn, nor do they need to check the corn 14 times a day, they need only to plant it and take reasonable care to ensure it's in an environment where it can grow.

Operating in a hostile environment and maintaining professionalism despite massive difficulty didn't phase me.

(neighbors have audis)Mathematically I assume: 20% down, 3.75% interest, 10K rehab, $7K total closing costs, 8% annual maintenance ($0.75/ft annually), 91% occupancy, my property management costs (~8% gross rent inclusive of leasing costs), insurance, $750 annual "other" (tax prep, insurance).

I do seem to get the perception that the rehab market in Orange County is somewhat dry, and that profitable and successful deals would be difficult to make in the current environment as a first time flipper/investor.

For those looking to learn more about our new securities environment this is an excellent read:For those looking to learn more about our new securities environment this is an excellent read:The article does a great job of talking through the constraints for issuers and the problems with the current legislation from a state securities standpoint.

Committing yourself to enjoying a foreign environment is a sure way to draw opportunity in.

One of the properties is a 1 Br/1Ba that needs some improvement, there may be a moisture problem, it has a noticeable bug problem, last year there was a plumbing problem, yea...it needs some work.I am not sure about the classifications nor the current living environment of the other property, but my guess is it's 50/50 on similarity.The owner is offering my friend both properties for $150k with $5k down.