Hi @Robert FiorilloI definitely think its possible to get it done while being in the military, it just presents its own set of unique challenges.

From the reviews I have received - location, location, location, no different than any other real estate investment appears to be the common theme.

I recently had the revelation that I have a very unique set of skills that may be valuable to the BiggerPockets community.  

From our personal experience in laboring over decisions on how to title our assets and how to protect them tax efficiently, we have found that each situation is unique and you have to find high quality legal, tax and insurance professionals to help you navigate.  

It's very possible that it will be more insulated now than it was in 2008 and it can sustain another recession better than the last one - due to more businesses moving there and a bigger population - but I don't think it's as recession proof and a chance prices and rents have some sort of correction.Ultimately, I think the people that will do best acquiring in this part of the cycle are the people that identified unique opportunities that someone unfamiliar with their market would be able to determine.

I have a unique model in the house in the Bronx that is a furnished co-live-work space for entrepreneurs in which I include services like linens, coffee/tea, community manager, etc and for which I'm able to collect rents that are approximately 2x the area rents.  

Each situation is unique.

Or if you know anything unique about the twin cities area, please share.

There is a common theme in REI..."

These are probably unique to me, so take them with a grain of salt.I really didn't want to have to disclose my status as an agent in my marketing or transactions.