I work more than full-time for my main gig and fitting the time in for real estate can be challenging.

For me, this would take a new options account at a specialist broker, but I'm calculating out the benefits of this "pure play" hedging index, vs the effort.As to the amount/cost of the hedge, I agree that you're mainly trying to avoid a loss if a market bubble hits or you're stuck with an unpurchased/unrented home for some time.

But again, if you're looking mainly at appreciation you'll miss the great cashflow that properties in the Pittsburgh market provide.

I would be looking for coastal/Caribbean, it's mainly going to be something I wanted to do for my mom, and I've never exactly planned a vacation, (I'm 21 with no kids) besides road trips with college buddies...

The cash on cash return is my main metric.

Cash for downpayments will not be an issue, though limited credit history may (good credit, just limited since I have no mortgage on record).My main questions are:1.

Thats the main issue for me, there is so much going on its distracting.

I manage myself, so can't answer your main question, but wanted to chime in on frequency of inspections.

That is a nice feature.

I mainly liked Zillow because it works well as an app on my phone and iPad.