I must retrain myself and constantly remember how insane this ostensibly sane place really is.And now here I am in a world guided by fear, a world suppressing the uniqueness that lies inside each of us, a world where we can either acquiesce to the inhuman nonsense of corporatism and materialism or insist on change.

It is typically used for gas or steam or fire suppression systems.

I thought conservatives were supposed to be big on ensuring that the government doesn't use its power to suppress the Constitutional rights and civil liberties of its people...Though if you believe Tim, shooting an unarmed, handcuffed guy in the back is not really a violation of any rights or liberties if the person doing the shooting is in a high-risk job and has to wear a bullet-proof vest to work every day.

Basically you need to complete some of the same due diligence as an individual and decide your appetite for risk. 

Sounds good on paper but always noise issues, shared utilities, yards, garages everything becomes a bone of contention.For conversions, there are codes issues with the separation of living quarters and fire suppression.

Appetite for risk, anticipated income needs, desired income...all these will play their part.Like others have said, be patient, take your time and do some serious research on the various avenues.

If you have the appetite for it, there is little to be said against Real Estate as a primary investment vehicle.I think you are correct in your assessment of the current market...the down is coming, but how soon?

It is almost as if the US prices are artificially suppressed as both markets appear to have decoupled since 2006.

I don't know your intentions for the space, or your arrangement with the owner, but a proper build out could involve fire separations from the rest of the facility, HVAC, electrical, fire suppression, etc.  

I may be a little too eager but when you're telling me Port Harris and Mott Haven above Brucker seem undesirable for a regular home buyer, you are just growing my appetite :) Perfect.