Perhaps I need to up my Google game!

She looks at things from an investor's perspective, and helped me purchase the duplex that I live in. https://www.realtyaustin.com/agents/Jen-Berbas.phpSince purchase prices and property taxes are pretty high, SFRs in Austin are definitely an appreciation game, not cash flow (assuming the standard 25% down). 

So I maybe incorrect in my thinking but the stability from 4 separate units- to me- seems to be a smart play.

I completely agree with you that 'gambling', or what I prefer to see as calculated risk taking, is certainly part of the game.

If they come here, then it's game on. 

Does this mean that those notes are being sold by the banks as a pool to the highest (I'd imagine billionaire) bidder who then plays middle-man and sells them off as he/she sees fit?

Thank you James, it wasn’t scaring me away too much but it did have me thinking, but I feel that since I’m so early in this game I’m still dealing with that nervousness and fear at times since that stuff isn’t easy to shake off.

@Rashard Dennis They usually require some skin in the game.

Also local custom will play a part here.

They have more skin in the game then you do.Make sure you get clear title.