The city appears to be strong and vibrant.

There are some ongoing efforts to redevelop the downtown waterfront area into a really vibrant place, there are several military bases there, and a lot of promise for continued employment growth.  

@Andrew LackeyWelcome to BiggerPockets, a place to interact with a vibrant REI group, learn the real estate business and language at near zero cost.

Downtown Detroit is the the cleanest most vibrant city I have ever lived in.

I am in Brad Sumrok's program and the "eco-system" that Brad facilitates is amazing!

Four mild seasons, lots of outdoor activities, good restaurants, plentiful drinking holes, and vibrant downtown and W.

For clarity - I mean engaged as a part of your business's community outreach/service.I am located in the Houston/Galveston area, but would be happy talking to anyone active or interested - DM me on BP.Placemaking is a way to make your community a better place to live and work by transforming public spaces into vibrant community places. 

Many towns are positioning themselves as vibrant communities with most of what you need.Appreciation (10-20 years)--I think slow and steady or at least not down.

Much of Metro Detroit is young, vibrant, and trending upwards.

You will quickly find out that Real estate investing is not one animal it is a entire eco system that you need to get very familiar with before you spend your hard earned funds.