Sounds like in less volatile markets in the midwest the replacement value still makes sense in most cases in my price range however. 

The cashflow lower class markets are extreamly volatile while class A/B major cities tends to not be as volatile if trying to avoid risk. 

Noooooo - you're smarter than your previous self, you have knowledge of real estate from your career as a realtor as well as resource contacts, and it's a great way to diversify your portfolio with added protection from inflation, stock market volatility, more. 

You'll probably have to look into a portfolio lender or portfolio loan product of some sort.A critical issue here is stocks as an asset class.. can be quite volatile (especially high BETA stocks).

Tons of volatility in the building materials market overall.

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.

There is too much volatility and prices are going to move lower on real estate.

Not sexy, but not volatile either.  

It's become extremely difficult for retirees to reduce risk/volatility and provide steady income from their portfolios.  

if i have positive cash-flow on my initial outlay, assuming property value is not volatile, shouldn't it be enough?