We are not speculators, we lend money based on a proven equation and if we are going to take a gamble on a property it will be one we buy with our own money in our own portfolio.

It's always a gamble on what the market is going to do. 

That is more of a gamble in my opinion.

Should we bite the several thousand dollar gamble or should just accept covering the original hardwood with other hard surface durable flooring.

After 5years, i would have already paid the loan down by $100k+ Appreciation: I don't want to gamble on the future value, but historically prices have been going up, the average appreciation of Las Vegas in the past 20yrs was 3.45% - the population is growing, tons of jobs created - however the city is surrounded by mountains, so there is only so much dirt left to build on.

Getting into RE without fully understanding what you are getting into is a gamble.

Over the years, I have been part of several discussions involving appreciation here on BP and even myself called it "gambling" way back when.

It is always a gamble but you do get your money back with interest.

My understanding is that hard money loans and flipping in general is a bit of a gamble.

My understanding is that hard money loans and flipping in general is a bit of a gamble.