The market is efficient so where illegal immigrants are will causing housing prices to go up which will cause the efficient movement of people to less expensive housing which will cause that housing to go up which will then push people out again. 

If you want to network or ask specific questions about your local market, go to your local real estate forum and connect with investors from your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86-local-real-estate-networking5.

The national office market is showing signs of stabilization as major corporate tenants like Bank of America, Fannie Mae, Bain Capital, and Verizon commit to large lease renewals.

It depends on the market you are looking at as well.

I have a great property in PHX that we have listed for sale, but I would be interested in running an RAL out of my house (already furnished, 5 bed 3 bath, single story ranch style home with two master bedrooms and a p...

Focus on things on the market.

Over that period you could do better in the stock market.

There is a great rental market ($1200 for 2/1 apartments) but house prices are still pretty low.

However, if your GC friend or their colleague was willing to be part of the loan that shouldn't be a problem.Here are some thoughts on your questions about building a new property versus buying existing ones:New construction: - Potential for Growth: Building a new property can be a great way to create exactly what you need for house hacking, especially in a market with low supply.

Look at their marketing strategy.