I know appreciation can be a gamble, as compared to cash flow. 

I know appreciation can be a gamble, as compared to cash flow.

From an equity build approach, seems taking on the 18 by itself is almost more of a gamble, no?

Then you both get to share bunks in the big house where you get romantically involved with other people you may not want to be romantically involved with.If anyone doubts the validity of the above paragraph, I would recommend you google: "Minerva Sanchez fraud" or just click on this link. https://www.justice.gov/usao-edca/pr/bay-area-real-estate-agent-arrested-orchestrating-fraudulent-short-sale-stanislaus

I'm looking for a Asheville or surrounding area real estate attorney that is experienced in contractor work litigation and contractor property liens.We have a situation we believe is fraudulent and want to part ways with our contractor.

Betting on appreciation is like gambling in my opinion.  

First as some have suggested, get the credit report (be sure to do this yourself; do not accept  credit reports presented by tenants as these may be fraudulent).

After realizing the market is essentially gambling, I started looking to real estate as I love the idea of having my money in something physical and real. 

If you have a 12 unit that is generating positive cash flow, and your bank is telling you they prefer to gamble on a flip... that's silly.

Provo is a great place and will not likely drop much even in a downturn (I have 2 buy and hold rentals there now) Trying to cash flow any new purchases in Provo is extremely difficult unless you buy condemned property and rehab it all your self (and don't mind still paying $150/sq ft for that) There are to many wanting to pay too much and gamble on appreciation.