I'm still expecting to struggle a bit though, and those arctic blasts can stay well North of the border. 

Appreciation is a gamble and it's on paper till you sell the property.

If you've got a good crystal ball and don't bet wrong, you can make a lot of money on appreciation.Appreciation is not gambling over long-term and no crystal ball is needed, only the ability to study history.

between my wife and myself, we lost a pretty decent chunk in the market last year. it's unfortunate, but investing in the market is just like our twice a year trip to vegas....a gamble!

Take this for what is worth, as I don't actively invest in Detroit, but I do invest in stable communities on the border.

Finding Buyers is something that is not supplied in any course I have previewed.. ( many of the best out there. ) Lee Arnold System is the most realistic as you can also partner and get financed with his enterprise.. but if you do not get the education I recommend your in danger of big failures.. do you want to gamble or make money ?

I haven't found that out yet.As far as alternatives go:Bitcoin - Feels more like gambling or playing the lottery than any actual investing, over the long haulGold/Oil/Gas - I'm not all that familiar with the various commodities. 

You are just gambling at that point.

Some border on harmful. 

That is a gamble and it should not play a factor in your purchase.