The fact that you think it's going to stay flat and are concerned about even a 5% correction shows that you are not equipped for what's to come.

In 2008 I sold a property then in 2013 sold the identical property next door. 

Even if the homes were identical at the outset, one has experienced wear and tear and the other hasn't.This would still be the case if the home "appreciated" in real terms due to increased demand for real estate in that area.

The capital was then used to invest in equipment.

I've even seen photos with contractor's equipment lying around.

You could sell your current home, buy an identical neighboring house while only borrowing $95k at 2-3% higher (call it $200/mo).

Keep rain gutters clear of debris and make sure all gutters drain away from the drainfield area.Do not drive any heavy equipment or other vehicles that could compact the soil over the drainfield.

If your clients knew how much more they could earn, I think they would want to hire a new employee or transfer the properties to a manager equipped to handle the investment and maximize their return.2.

It's easy for a heavy equipment operator to make $150,000 per year or more.Although I don't have any first hand knowledge, from what I understand there have definitely been layoffs in the oil patch.

That way it is easy to fix and identity the error.9.