I see that there are quite a few members in the Cedar Rapids, North Liberty, Coralville, and Iowa City area.I just have one question before I sign off---what are some of the best ways newbies can contribute to this community?

The problem is for those who are trying to save up money to jump into the market, the combination of slowly rising interest rates and the rapid escalation in home prices are more than outstripping the additional savings. 

Will, if you are willing to take a "rapid re-housing" tenant (generally these tenants are homeless or are in a precarious living situation) you will have very little problem finding a tenant. 

Grand Rapids has some great numbers and seems to be the next big city that will take off.

Save your money, live well below your means, and once you have a well paying job you'll be able to rapidly save for your first down payment.

Our area will hit a peak in values soon because the rapid appreciation never goes forever.

Anyone have a good flooring installation company in Grand Rapids?  

Add in the more challenging management aspects and financing challenges as well as rapidly depreciating assets and it's often not worth it.

If no one does the probate the property deteriorates rapidly and is often sold for unpaid taxes.

This is important in areas with rapidly increasing property values.