Quick search on the forums will indicate that all 4 areas you've mentioned have solid activity (buy and sell). 

I don't believe it, but it's indicative of the froth in the market. 

She took the sellers word on the size- they said it's what the house's size was reported at during the last appraisal, though she never confirmed it by viewing the appraisal.We want to address the large disparity in sq. ft. prior to closing, but our realtor has indicated she's out of town until Saturday.  

The indicators given were a historically high amount of equity in primary residences, employers using bonuses to reward employees vs. salary increases, and college students choosing STEM degrees vs. liberal arts degrees. 

Fortunately, she has indicated that at her age, she will not need to purchase another home.I assume, I'll need to have her quit-claim the deed, put me as a beneficiary on the insurance, and give my attorney any information and authority necessary to deal with the bank in the future, should there be any problems.Has anyone done this before?

Are there any indicators that suggest population will increase, decrease or stay about the same? 

Over the years I often talk to acquaintances who indicate they would like to be real estate investors, but have not yet made the leap.

A legitimate beta test would’ve indicated all these issues.

Over the years I often talk to acquaintances who indicate they would like to be real estate investors, but have not yet made the leap.

@Richard WilsonAlso, the bank is able to give a letter indicating how much cash you have for the property.