If you're only getting 4 or 5% CoC Return on the capital you're investing, you'd be better off investing in the stock market, which I believe has historically returned an average 9 - 9.5% over the past several decades.

On top of that, there are stock bonuses for first transaction, hitting cap, and other goals.

I'm not sure of the specifics in law, but I believe stock portfolios are subject to the same step-up type cost basis rights so inheriting stock itself rather than the cash value is beneficial.

I think of it like  trading paper stocks game. 

We're happy keeping our current loans, all under 5%, for the full term at these low rates, especially with stock market returns doing so well for several years now, so it's made more sense investing there rather than paying down loans. 

I looked as stocks, realestate, gold, insurance, etc...

The homes will easily pay off the student loans once the house is paid for.I would not put money in stock that might make 7% when I owed 7% in student loans or 21% on credit cards.

I wouldn't take much stock in what your realtor recommends, they typically list higher than what it's worth to lock you into the deal  I use flat fee and can sell myself or MLS which works very well for me in the event I do a creative sale. 

I was trying to explain the stock market is the real casino, but I don't know how to start 

Most people will tell you why they wouldn't be a landlord or invest their retirement account into a property, and these are the people who are hoping to retire at 65 if the stock market allows. 3) Dear 25-year old me, get invested in something!