There is a labor shortage for new construction.

Properties near where I work are extremely expensive and there seems to be a shortage of them.Any advice?

I think house shortage makes a NJ a good spot for investment- though not sure if price points make it a good ROI..Pros in NJ and DE area - can you please provide your perspective on ROI in the two markets and where should I start exploring.

Don't know about Texas, but most states require some type of licensing to do so, and rightly so.As to purchasing a short sale property, you will be much better off finding an experienced short agent and negotiator, and let them do it.

If its negative, you need to be sure you can cover that shortage, which often comes in big lumps.There is also a speculation play with real estate.  

The Denver market is definetly hot right now with a shortage of rentals.

Needless to say they will never have a shortage of applicants, and those kids need a place to live.

Vancouver is very much like many other HIGH priced area's there is an acute shortage of land.. and very wealthy folks want to live there... it is what it is.

The rent comps and shortage of rentals I believe make it possible.

Luckily there is no shortage of books on either subject, but it is finding relevant information.