Since the last oil crisis, Houston has done an outstanding job of diversifying...With high-tech, healthcare, and alternative energies booming, petroleum just doesn't have the effect on us that it did in the past...it's now a smaller piece of the pie that is Houston.Many locals remember the hard times in the '80s, and are fearful that they will return, but when you look at all that the area has to offer (booming industries, affordable housing, great schools, investment opportunities, friendly people, decent winters, etc.) you realize that Houston still has a lot going for it.And even if things were to cool off a bit, that's beneficial to investors, as it means less home ownership and more renters!

I live in Scottsdale and condos are much more affordable, but carry an HOA fee.

Less disposable income means that they cannot afford to pay the level of rent they did in the past.

. (~4-6 bedrooms here).B-level: Similar criteria to A-level but without the custom built homes, 2-income families can afford to live here and raise a family, backyards for the kids, 1500-2000 sq ft houses (~3 bed/2-bath homes).C-level: Majority of houses under 100K, visual repairs needed in this neighborhood, 1200 sq ft average, houses close together, some properties worn down, grass not cut, porch awnings sagging, concrete stairs crumbling a bit.D-level: Struggling neighborhoods, garbage on the streets, bars on the windows, higher crime, crowded areas, downtown city area, wouldn't want to walk around here at night.F-level: War-zone, "get me outta here" property, makes you nervous to enter the neighborhood even in daylight.That's my basic approach when I think about properties and what areas make the most sense to invest in.

I don't plan to stay up here forever but as I move around I'll never find an affordable place to work or store numerous vehicles.  

If you Google the articles on the Japanese buying the refinery, you will see there are much more incentives and benefits being afforded to St Croix than just reopening the refinery.

It's also a question of whether or not you can afford it on your own.  

At that point you would want to make sure they can both afford the place.In short, I'd say yes, make sure the daughter has her criminal/credit report checked.

It combines sustainability with architecture and affordability, and is a big gentrification trend.  

I wish I had experience running an apartment complex as I could certainly use the capital to afford one, but I wouldn't have a clue as to what I am doing.