Many real estate investors were extremely busy during the recession acquiring rental property portfolios between the years of 2009 to 2013.

So even if they bought at the high point in 2005-2006 they had enough equity to weather the storm not to mention rents went up 10-12% in these smaller units in these multi unit buildings as the recession brought a larger demand for rentals especially rentals in the $800-$1000 range.As you get into Elgin, where you have more options, you get closer to the 2% rule working but most times the property taxes throw your numbers off in that area.

What I like about lower/middle income rental properties is that they are recession and boom proof.  

At the time I was making less than $40K per year but wanted to take advantage of the recession.

recessed small spots, but many of them.  

I think the sensitivity to a recession is greater as you go to the newer and poorer parts of Metro Atlanta.  

How many bp would the Fed have to raise before we're heading into the next recession?

I built the entire 60" enclosure from scratch & recessed the base to floor level.

I am now looking into Middletown, CT it's a small town but it has both Wesleyan University and Middlesex Hospital which I like because they are both recession resistant.

Finally, I would suggest a portion of economics so they are aware of the larger picture, are we in a bubble, recession, inflation etc.On the construction side, even if you don't intend to swing a hammer, knowing building codes and best practices is always good.