The short version of my experience is: It can be profitable BUT there is a learning curve and you need to reach a critical mass of properties (at least 6-10) to get more predictable returns.  

I have no way of predicting if the tenant will actually move, so I file the complaint regardless.  

It is detailed regarding delinquency numbers and does predict noticeable increases in short sales.

This is the predicted point base on when the property will be bought by a developer and built out for development.

If we continue doing the traditional way of what other people are doing our predictable way of "expanding" is not going to work.

The rental market compared to overall appreciation is dependent upon a lot of factors and is not completely predictable.

Even though it all comes down to the numbers... sometimes those numbers are quite soft - predicting appreciation rate over the next 30 years?

Short term, the boom has a good 1-2 years of growth ahead I humbly predict. 

@Ned Carey, can you or ANYONE explain how a cap rate can screen properties or predict profitability? 

As most auctions go it was predictable, the price started low but jumped up rather fast.