If I could rewind 7 years, I would’ve personally scooped up another property near downtown...prices were more forgiving back then.All that said, I’m curious..if you were getting back in the game today, would a condo with strong amenities but an unpredictable HOA top your list, or are you eyeing single-families for that full control?

Use next 4-6 months to learn by listening, reading and watching how the real estate investment game works.

In my case I was lucky that I still kept half of my portfolio, so didn’t get out of the RE game altogether.

When you have won the game, it's time to stop playing."

I assume if one wanted to 1031 for "rinse and repeat" you'd also be game for that as well. 

If you’re looking to build long term wealth, accumulate assets, take advantage of tax code, and benefit from appreciation, then play the appreciation long game.

Although I probably get killed on transaction fees which is part of why I am not pulling the trigger (along with lack of time to execute well).There are games you can play for increasing your returns in the stock market (sector rotations, rebalancing, being a good company picker) but you lack operational control. 

Partnering with the right investment Realtor can be a game changer—they’ll help fill in the gaps, give market insight, and bring you deals that best match your strategy.

So you really need a downpayment + 15k to be in the game.

Real estate investing is a team sport and at different points in the game different players will play more important roles.