I agree. 4 years ago I wanted to obtain more cashflow for safety reasons.

Dad passed, moved mom to assisted living for her safety and comfort.

For safety, each bedroom should have two points of egress. 

While I haven't invested in NJ, I think in general, I'd suggest just be patient.  

Then there is a new push for CLT also.As long as you have a certified architect/struct eng and can get permits from the correct govt permitting agency for structure and fire safety, I haven't heard a problem with insurers.

There really is too much safety risk in any other model and it is better to deliver more then promise more and deliver less. 

Its a numbers game so be patient especially since the markets you are looking at are all very competitive.

It's not always easy to be patient especially with some always saying just jump in.

However, if the recovery isn't as swift as many people are predicting and as it has started out to be, then we'll likely see a shift to a buyer's market.In either scenario, the best recommendation that I can make to you is to be patient and prepared because there will likely be a multitude of good deals available in the next 6-12 months.

Seeing businesses burned down within a block of your place obviously isn't very comforting but I can't say it really has impacted how I feel in regards to my own safety in the neighborhood.