3 separate recent studies show it is currently cheaper to rent than own in virtually every large market and that it has never been more so than currently.  

@Richard Benjamin Wilhite, @Bill B.makes some good points about loan terms and the strict identification rules for a 1031 exchange.I would add from a tax mitigation perspective that buying the largest property possible will give you the greatest amount of cost segregation possibility and at the lowest cost since it would be one study rather than several. 

Tough environment to focus on studies. 

3 recent national studies show that the rent to value ratio is at an all time worse (what they really studied was cheaper to rent than buy, but there is strong correlation).  

The solution I give them is to narrow their focus on a specific market, study it, and get to know what a good deal looks like.

College used to be a lot more affordable, I studied in Europe (where college is free) and it blows my mind to see kids with 200k student loan debt trying to get ahead on a 50k job.The housing market has started to drift apart geographically.

I'd also recommend diving into books, podcasts, and even attending real estate events to start learning more.Here:Learn the Basics: Study property types, financing, and market trends.Network: Attend events, connect with pros, and build relationships.Find a Mentor: Seek guidance from someone experienced in commercial real estate.Start Small: Look at smaller deals or partnerships to get your feet wet.Take Action: Once ready, start evaluating deals and making offers.

@Dennis McNeely - my concern with getting a soils study is if it shows there's something really wrong with the soil, such as expansive soil, I would have to disclose that fact when I go to sell the property. 

(e-commerce company that was looking into bankruptcy last year, mastermind businesses, putting on broadway type musicals, including one about Neil Diamond) Their website is fairly opaque as to how they generate their profits in order to pay note investors the very high yields they offer, 14-23%.

I feel bad for the investors who are likely going to lose out on their hard earned income and invested in this company but it can also be used as a case study for other members of the BP community moving forward before investing.