I am trying to determine the "economic anchor" of my market. An economic anchor is something that supports the local economy and is not going anywhere even during an economic downturn.Question: Can a hospital located ...

Or is there another factor (besides proximity) that needs to be considered before a university can be considered a major university and economic anchor?

An economic anchor is something that supports the local economy and is not going anywhere even during an economic downturn.Question: Hypothetically speaking, if the average commute to work of residents who live in a desired market is 25 minutes and a major university or hospital is 23 minutes away, but is located in the next town over... can the hospital or university still be considered an economic anchor?

We really like the product.

My lender has incentive to sell me a product, so I can't always assume the idea is prudent simply because he likes it.

Does anyone know of a lender in Texas that can refinance a personal property using a non-income based product?

Chicago is major metro market and there are lots of great RE professionals here.

Every 5 years, you might have a major capital item. 

I suppose people are focusing on flips in major metros rather than vacation spots?

One of the greatest things about the BP forums is the fact that you can ask a question and not be solicited by people to purchase their products and/or services and if people want to advertise their services or solicit business, they can...