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?

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

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. 

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.

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

Based on your advice to newer investors, should I play the long term game by paying off my house early (2030)?

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.

We did quite well in the Timber game in the 90s Owned many thousands of acres of Timberland during that time its a great industry one of the favorite things I ever did beat the heck out of rental houses LOL

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

Hopefully, 2025 will reward us all who have stayed in the game.