It also doesn’t swing up/down in value like “hot” markets.

The swings can be quick and steep.

When you find something that meet your criteria then take a swing at it even if you don't have the full 20%.

Fixer upper with future equity potential, potential for a big upward market swing, and strong rental rate. 

Heard a funny story once where some first-time buyer was at the tail end of a several month FHA purchase and had a surprise divorce... supposedly the realtor ended up "purchasing" his swing-set for $3,500 to get him over the bar for required funds, and had to supply the bank with a notarized letter of purchase so they wouldn't write the deposit off as an un-seasoned gift. 

If you can swing it, make the basement another unit! 

So depending on when your lease ends you may be able to swing it or else make a deal with your current landlord to break your lease early.

I had read that Entertainment (golf dues, ski passes, etc) were no longer deductible, but I have not read anything about meals.

I can play golf year around.

Markets tend to swing and when they do you want to make sure you don't take a drastic hit .