That house in the path of progress has a lot more volatility and, probably, a lot more investors looking to exit in tough times.

I own 3 condos, and Ive owned 2 other ones in the past.Condos have certain very distinct advantages (Easier to manage, easier to fill, less repairs, less capex) and some very distinct disadvantages (more price volatility, HOA power in someone elses hands,).  

I’m not interested in REITs and market volatility. 

3)I have had peers tell me that the San Diego Market is too volatile for investments, especially with rent control.

They have a little higher gains (a lot more volatility) but a syndicator who is willing to put you in a deal with more than 10-20% of your net worth is asking for trouble.

I do have exposure in Energy Stocks ( Enbridge directly and others indirectly) but the returns are more or less around 4% Dividend yield and a very volatile cap gain.

I have seen lenders demand anywhere from 50% to 70% of the purchase price up front due to its inherent volatility.

I agree it is better to give money to the individual and they can choose how to use it but there is no denying that parts of the RE community are thriving over the volatility that comes with a mass drug problem.

Of course, by diversifying your IRA into rental property, the plan principal is more secure and not exposed to the same types of news-driven volatility. 

If we could time the market we'd all be billionaires.Between what is going on in the government right now and worldwide, I think there is increased volatility right now.