If you have additional questions, feel free to add to this thread and otherwise we'll let it stop.Happy new year to all and a safe, prosperous 2012.

But all of them make the most sense to me in terms living in a nation of liberty, freedom, and prosperity.

Anyone who would dispute my claim that the United States is the best nation in the world is free to tell me who is stronger, more prosperous, and a better place to live and express your individuality with greater opportunities for your own enrichment from your own individuality.

Thou Shall Prosper - Daniel Lapin The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant - Terry FelberFields of Gold - Andy Stanley The Legacy Journey - Dave RamseyAs for my thoughts more specifically related to the original post?

You might look into a Prosper loan or one of the other peer to peer lenders.  

If hot water heater needed replacement, AC, plumber, electrician labor and parts x$. this is how you will be able to sleep at night by having a plan.If you want to prosper in real estate you need reserves and a good deal.

All these will help determine what type of asset you need and in which area to focus.There are good rental opportunities (1-4 units)  available in Chester and Montgomery area if you are looking in the Philadelphia suburbs.I also recommend joining a local REIA such as DIG (https://digonline.org/) and attending a few sessions and evaluating at least 50-60 deals before pulling the trigger, to hone your underwriting and due diligence skills.One thing I wish someone would have shared with me sooner - look at larger asset classes such as purchasing apartments, self-storage, etc as soon as you can.Welcome to real estate investing and wish you a prosperous journey.

Tax-cut-and-spend to prosperity?  

Unless California suddenly turns business and people-friendly, Las Vegas will have a long run of prosperity.

I'm sure you will get very good advise.Happy and Prosperous 2016!