It sounds like it’s been a solid investment.

Ask your employer if you can have your pay split up into three deposits, one to investments savings, one to your checking account for personal use on a daily basis, and one to an emergency account you can tap into so you don't have to tap into your investment savings.

Investment Info:Single-family residence other investment.

Are there pockets of growth or opportunities in the area?

I've been interested in real estate investing on/off over the last two years.  

Here is my list of the most dangerous real estate related investments for the “non professional” investor lacking direct knowledge  and experience in these investments 1.

Investment Info:Single-family residence wholesale investment.

Investment Info:Large multi-family (5+ units) commercial investment investment.

Its a slow learning process if you havent been in the lending, investing or real estate world before.

How Real Estate Investors Can Leverage Private Lenders for Profitable PartnershipsJoint ventures (JVs) are a powerful tool in real estate investing, yet many investors shy away from them due to misunderstandings or a lack of awareness about how they work.