Jeff, doesn't your real estate give you an inflation hedge, and at the same time gives you income, leverage, and tax efficiency?

Bill Walston : Is there a time period for ownership that signals the intent...own/rent for 1-year, (investment), or re-sell after 90-days without renting, (inventory)?

As for Denver County auctions...In Colorado auctions are held by the public trustees of each county.Below is a link to the Denver County public trusteehttp://www.denvergov.org/clerkandrecorder/ClerkandRecorder/Foreclosures/tabid/437349/Default.aspxI have not attended Denver's Foreclosure Sale/Auction, but my experience is that the public trustees required a certified check(or other good funds) at the auction.I would certainly speak to expert before participating as it is a buyer beware (caveat emptor) purchase: -No guarantee that the foreclosing lien is in first position-No rights to inspect-Can be redeemed out by other jr lien holders after sale-Persons may still be living in the property and require eviction or other arrangements-Lessees may have a grace period to leave-All sales are finalI am not an expert and that is just my personal understanding.The aforementioned is personal opinion and none of the content should be considered a binding offer or agreement.

I am assuming that the property tax we paid on our condo back in November 2011 covers the time period of 7/1/2011 to 1/1/2012 exactly.

That said, I am surprised at all the pro 401(K) positions from a lot of good investors in this thread.Matty M Aside from the tax efficiency, matching, and higher contribution limits, I am in favor of self directed 401Ks.

I bought a lot for 25K, with a study period of 45 days.

APRs for both are attractive and the 15 yr. would be about $180 more per month and I would save about $20k on interest over the loan period.

Seems if the home is decent and priced fair it will be gone before the 15 day period is up.

Appreciation is related to inflation and scarcity ver a period of time.

For institutional lenders, specifically salable residential mortgage lenders, you will need credit – period.