Not everyone is in a position (economic, Marital, or otherwise) that allows them to execute a full-fledged "traditional" investment strategy. 

I thought you might enjoy this article written by Robert Shiller, Sterling Professor of Economics, Yale University:http://insights.som.yale.edu/insights/housing-mark...Agree/Disagree? 

The thought of having the deal with local government building & health departments persistently finding problems, DEA agents, and possibly other agencies should the tenant do something illicit in their business is just not worth the rent, and or the xtra rent.  

In my GA market a huge indicator of financial health and good sense is if they have a bank account with more than the move in cash in it.  

My father-in-law's health has rapidly declined so we don't feel like we can just move without getting them to go with us. 

I worked with a partner 50:50 who had much more experience but multiple contractor issues, health issues to my partner, and high crime in the area lead to most of my capital being tied up for 9 months with no profit to speak of. 

Made an offer that was countered, and I thought it was still to much, especially considering the economic conditions at the time.

The same is going to be the case in Lowell....increased risk from tenant base as well as economic sensitivity.  

So yes, I diversify investments, but into my own companies, not into something run by another usually.Though all roads can be paved with failure, do nothing is sure to lead to failure.I think the big lesson here is that you HAVE to watch your own portfolio numbers and know what they are so that you know the health of your money and what you should be doing with it.

Although the labor and housing markets are performing well, muted corporate and consumer spending along with an array of global concerns – from China to sharply lower commodity prices – are acting as governors on economic growth.