I think you're going to have to think your objectives through much more thoroughly then what I've seen here: merely wanting a 250k return on $2mil, well why RE?  

They don't quit, they merely find a different way.

With merely a high school diploma under my belt, I plan on being a prominent REI in my area before I hit 20.

Stay away from the “guru” sales-pitch events - they rarely increase your investment knowledge, they merely empty your wallet!

From a mere labor stand point this seems inevitable as technology allow humans to create more output and in short time frames.

I believe a duplex in southern CA is merely a capital gains or appreciation play especially in areas like Huntington beach, Seal Beach, etc because the cash flow will barely coverage the mortgage/tax/insurance in most cases if not probably negative cash flow and that's probably being generous with expenses and managing the property yourself.In some rare instances in east LA, inland empire, non coastal, Kern county, or other you may be able to find cash flow focused properties though.

For me personally, I believe your home should not be an investment - it's merely a place to live.

Are you removing existing shingles, replacing or repairing sheeting or merely putting on a new layer of singles.

The initial government response to the crisis exacerbated the situation; protectionist policies like the Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1930, rather than helping the economy, merely strangled global trade.

This was merely an example to illustrate the opportunity cost.