Todays interest rate environment it is not a bad idea because it will be challenging to get returns that meet your interest rate you are payingIf your loan is 2-3% I would out the money in an account earning 4-5% compared to paying down a 3% mortgage - but I also get the stress relief of having a low mortgage and lots of equity

Seller has no money to pay utilities or buy groceries.

For my wife it’s the opposite.But you make a good point that real estate is not for everyone and there are other ways to make money.

If you are going to say your loan down part of your return for your net worth -- it should also be discounted, considering it is money leaving your pocket.

And that’s what ppl think they can find if they listen to real estate podcasts that set improper expectations (and really just want them to spend money on their products/deals)That being said year 1/2 can be rough with unexpected (should have expected) repairs from the prior owner.

If I rent it, it won't cash flow more than 2%, which is sort of ok as my goals is creating a portfolio of additional income for retirement (12 years from now)  If I sell it I will likley lose a little money ($5-$10k) I Used a VA loan to purchase zero down and will be living in it for 24 months while I do the rehab.purchase price $330K, rehab $15k, Estimated ARV is $370k.  

Personally, I think they are very ugly and I really don't see how using them saves much (any) money unless you get them free.Finishes are the most expensive part of construction.

I'm also looking at my Equity loan, saving money, selling the property if it is worth it, I had thought about a refinance.

If you take that into consideration, you are losing money on the property. 

This is actually the hottest market in America IMO.With that level amount of money you have to play big and do NOT think small ( i am still small investor LOL)