My theory is to pick an area with predictable demand (like a city) so at least the monthly rent is less "squishy" and I can see what numbers work. 

I predict we see 0 price growth for the next 2 years but prices will not fall any further in most markets.

Many options for passive investors and if you choose your operator/manager well I would predict you will make more money and have far more free time in your life.

I also don't know how you can predict it's going to be good for 10-15 years if it's already 100 years old. 

Be alert and watch what is going on, try to predict what others will do to help stay safe and alive.Protect yourself as best you can, but jump on and ride, have fun. 

Stand Price: $20,000.00 (R390,000.00)Build cost prediction: $40,000.00 (+-R800,000.00)Average daily rate: $100 (+-R1800) Predicted occupancy: 40% - 80% depending on season. 

@Marcos Carbi forget trying to predict what's going to happen at a macro level and let's look at this deal.What are the numbers?  

The reason for that is passive investing, good and predictable returns, security of principal. 

My prediction if you go that route is that you end up with nothing except a legal bill.

Is one of these more favorable than another for new investors looking to make our first investment as straightforward and predictable as possible, while also trying to protect ourselves, our investment, and ourselves FROM our investment?