Andrew,I echo the sentiments of doing your homework.

The fact that he feels comfortable expressing these views around you means he may feel you have similar sentiment.

@Matt Rasich I am going to echo some of the comments and sentiments of over BPers, but (first) I want to provide you with a link to a summary of the "Chicago Landlord Ordinance." http://www.cityofchicago.org/dam/city/depts/dcd/ge...

Ditto Richard's sentiment.

While I share Don's sentiments about rational self-maximization being the primary motivator I also find it helpful to have a slogan that makes for a nice conversation starter.

My sentiments are with you there.

I can appreciate that sentiment Edward.

This will impact your numbers adversely and will require higher rental income to meet your DSCR (debt service coverage ratio), if you are borrowing money.With interest rates being high, prices still not getting much downward pressure, insurance premiums going even higher (as less companies offering and their risk model will ask of higher premiums, that if they offer insurance in the first place) - are all contributing to a softer sentiment for the time being. 

I agree with other sentiments here Houston proper seems absolutely bonkers from  a supply / demand perspective right now, whatever you do, proceed deliberately and be careful.

Both of these sentiments are value judgements regarding status.There is nothing intrinsically wrong (or right) with valuing status.