Stairs themselves are not typically load bearing.

You'll also hear people talk about cost segregation & depreciation, which are great, but not everyone is in a position where they can maximize the benefits of depreciation.Also bear in mind that it doesn't need to be either-or.

Bear Market (or correction): many, many are going to lose money.  

This is evident already in the 32,000 square-foot Lego Discovery Center built last August, the coming Build-a-Bear to the mall, and community events PREIT has organized such as Taste of Springfield, and Cherry Blossom Festivals.

IMHO, and bearing in mind that I can't see it in person...I don't think that that slight slope justifies a retention wall.

@Bear Naisang $38k with 5% down equates to a $700k purchase price.So, why aren't you buying another primary that you can then rent out when you leave?

Rob's niche isn't for everyone, but he sure has brought me a lot of value.Each of the hosts has brought to bear a form of their personal expertise (love me some Henry Washington insights!).  

Its also long term since freshly planted trees or the like take several years to begin bearing fruit.

@Dawit Wo  Bear with me for asking, why would you agree to 5k down and 0% interest? 

Where I work and where the investment properties are/would be are about 150 miles apart.