Also, our grocery expenses are below what the USDA lists for a thrifty couple- I cook every meal and we eat a lot of fruits and vegetables.Our car expenses are just gas, insurance, and regular maintenance; plus, some recent and expensive repairs.

They would pick them dry before the George buds could produce Ben fruit.

Take home message - everyone goes for the low hanging fruit, you'll have to either climb to the top or find another tree...edit: Also, remember your response rate will vary with different pieces, split test.

To twist an old cliche: Don't scatter your eggs in multiple baskets and lose sight of them. 

Gift basket, dinner out, when the house closes.

There are little pockets that can be very fruitful to an investor.

Keep it in good enough condition to allow me to see the true fruits of the investment when it’s been paid off in 15, 20 or 30 years.

The trick is to look for a point of commonality and go with it.If you’re standing in a long line somewhere and it’s taking forever to get through, look at the person behind you and say, “I always seem to choose the slowest line,” or if you have a full basket, say “I only came in for one item.”

Everyone wants the low hanging fruit.

I don't see huge upsides as there is only a few years left in the up swing and after transaction costs, it's not that fruitful to buy now and hold for another 5 years or so.Also, I'm in earthquake country and insurance is a gamble at best as they may deny a claim.