I think buying in volatile markets in 2019 (read: anything on the west coast + most major cities nationwide) just means you're paying someone else's appreciation check while helping them get out at the right time before things get softer.

(hint: the answer should be 'yes')Are you comfortable with 401k volatility?

Volatility and risk in the product type coupled with an economic slowdown... investors just aren't and won't be looking to place capital in the retail sector when other areas like multifamily and office remain hot. 

Fear is what is causing the sell offs and volatility and that is when wealth transfers from those that are scared to savy investors.

Here's hoping that this is the most volatility we'll see for the rest of the year, but something tells me all bets are off.

Appreciation markets - They can be more volatile.  

In this climate, if you go to an A or B+ grade neighborhood the cap rates are very compressed and if you go below that the cash flow will be incredibly volatile due to tenancy issues. 

So if I could invest and get 10% ownership of a larger deal, with the efficiency that brings in: solid property management, less volatile vacancy figures, etc. would that be a the better route than trying to do it on my own with a much smaller deal?

They have a little higher gains (a lot more volatility) but a syndicator who is willing to put you in a deal with more than 10-20% of your net worth is asking for trouble.

.$55,000 - $75,000 properties that will rent for $600 - $800 per month.This pocket has been our sweat spot for many years now and I don't think that anyone has bought more properties than us in the area lolYou will find decent tenants that tend to stay and pay and low volatility with not many evictions.That's my 0.02 Aussie cents :)I wish you much success