I don't need an insurance company to protect me from the market fluctuation.

As far as the Los Angeles area goes, below is a little bit more information on what we're looking for.3-8 Unit Buildings$500,000-$1.3 mil in price rangeSeeing as we are looking in Los Angeles, a lot of the "rules" (rent rule, etc)  are difficult to apply in this market, so we are able to fluctuate on these numbers as long as the deal would make sense.  

Currently I am primarily looking at buy and hold deals for cash flow initially with potential to flip based on market fluctuation.  

If that's the case, then depending on what kinds of assets are in the trust, the income could fluctuate from year to year.

There are concepts and disciplines that should be adhered to, regardless of market fluctuations.

Dennis,Military demand fluctuates. 

Depending on market cycle and overall economy, their values may fluctuate a bit more, but 5-10 years from now you'll very likely be cash flowing nicely and have a nice appreciation gain.

This means that you can set an automatic stop on your ETF to sell to cash at a level you are comfortable with the fluctuations.  

Our duplex STR in Mission Beach (San Diego both units are small 2/1) are rented virtually all year but the rents fluctuate from low season of $130/day to high of $350/day.  

Obviously, this does not fluctuate with usage, but does offer an additional income to offset water/sewer bills.