It's not unusual, even in CA to have periods of no appreciation.

Hi BiggerPockets,I have an unusual question for you.  

My path into real estate investing is a little unusual, so I thought I would share it with you all.At the end of the fall 2018 semester, I was having lunch with a professor and mentor who is a Buffalo native.

Not unusual for 40-50% increases and not uncommon for the huge spike to cause someone to sell before it takes effect.

I also trade contact information to let us know if anything happens unusual and also ask them for their patience if its loud from construction/renovation.

Nothing was unusual. 

There was nothing unusually and she says that the water bill is typically $50 a month.

Many people wouldn't want renters in their backyard, but I live in a high density housing area with an unusually large/long backyard.

No attorney needed, in most cases, unless there's something unusual about your terms, ownership stake, or the title work.The trick is if you seller finance, you have to be prepared in case the buyer doesn't pay. 

I know, I know...you can loose your money investing on your own in RE or in the stock market, but, with RE you have fee simple ownership, so, absent some real unusual scenario or very aggressive play and/or wrong speculation, the downside is somewhat limited and RE(multi-family) seems to be more forgiving over time, in that respect.