I was initially planning on using the money to purchase a property in Palm Springs for an STR, but with todays announcement of higher inflation bringing us closer to the panic that comes with a recession I am second guessing.

I also found a buy and hold that would cash flow barely but annual appreciation kept pace or exceeded the rate of inflation.

If anything the numbers are most likely off because inflation.  

As we know, inflation has increased in all aspects except for the COSTCO ROTISSERIE CHICKEN.

(AND) Inflation at 10% has already made her $50,000 worth $45,000 in spendable cash.It might be wise to get with a professional who specializes in assisting "Elders" with estate planning from a financial perspective.To help lower the tax burden for real estate transfers during an emotionally trying time.I can't remember the title of this profession right now, but maybe one of the other forum posters can provide that.Trusts and structuring finances and etc..for elders from a tax perspective in light of that unpleasant event.What I am saying is the purchase of rental real estate might not be (or might be) in her (and eventually your) best interest--financially, (when that unfortunate day comes).Good Luck!

In our area, the artificial home prices from Covid and inflation are starting to normalize, if we don’t sell soon, we will likely be only slightly above where we purchased the home.

However, keep in mind we are in a peak market that could change quickly with increasing interest rates, inflation, and other factors.

Even those who went all in to cash have seen their purchasing power erode by 8.6% to inflation. 

The relentless rise of inflation only highlights that previous rate increases have not been drastic enough to achieve the economic parameters the Fed is aiming for.

Fed is doing whatever they can to kill the demand in order to cool off the inflation, and real estate is a big part of that inflation.