Of course there are other variables like cost and procedure for site plan or use approvals in that area that I can't predict, but assuming it's a conforming use and approvals are easy enough, just construction costs for the tenant type I can throw out a ballpark for you.

Buying and predicting what the area will be like 20 years down the road is the number 1 rule.2. 

My prediction is that taxes in the future will be significantly higher and real estate investors will be hit hard. 

its funny how regional the answers are.. but right now and I know this is an old thread.. but right now new construction is far better than fixers.. for this reason.1. everybody and their brother is chasing fixers.. and prices are high margins thin 2. there is extreme liquidity in the fix and flip mortgage market.in our markets that I work mainly  building new homes is far easier less competitive and more profitable.. and way more predictable  @J Scott  wondering if you have pivoted into new construction in a bigger way or still working flips.So for land there is much less liquidity for lenders doing new construction so all the late night TV folks and or smaller beginners are not going to find it easy to get a TRUE construction loan.. were as a beginner can usually get a flip loan no problem.. its loosening a little but lenders for new construction are not taking on new beginners or very limited experience generally speakingI like the fact that there are far less surprises you have a plan.. you have bids you have a budget and we pretty much hit the numbers most times.. way less surprises.. and the absolute game changer is the sub base is far and away more qualified and professional than working with low end rehab contractors that are so frustrating.. as well as under capitalized cant buy their own materials have no credit etc etc..  

Though it is nice and can be somewhat predictive, it is still a form of speculation. 

I will begin work on a plan of how I will capitalize on what I predict will be a 3 year recession in our local economy.

A cash flow market is more predictable.

Seperately metered utilities makes life more predictable.

What's your prediction? 

When this happens any slight downturn in the market or increase in interest rates creates a snowball effect of defaultsBy 2020 many analysts predict with interest rate hikes and some slowing of the economy to buckle up as we may go on another wild ride