I'd be crazy to think that new models wouldn't arise, but I certainly don't know what those models are (just like I couldn't predict new methods of communication (the Internet), new methods of shared transport (Uber) or new methods of short-stay housing (AirBnB)). 

Until newbies learn to make a "more astute analysis", it's probably best for them to stick to less risky / more predictable options.

Obviously I cant predict everything but the savings and e-fund have helped me gain wiggle room in my monthly budget, enough that I'm ready to take this plunge.  

The government can't protect you from yourself.My personal predictions for 2016 and forward isn't so much the absence of product but that more local governments will introduce cash grabs under the guise of protecting the consumer.

And I can understand why - it's difficult to predict or analyze.  

No one can predict the future, but we can always look to the past for guidance.

If you run enough analysis in the area, you start to understand that they start to get predictable, so you'll know you need to be under $XXX  condo fee and under $XXXXXX purchase price to make it work for you.

Diversification is the key to spreading risk should there be an economic collapse as predicted by Peter Schiff and other leading economists on May 28, 2016.

Cash-flow seems to be the less-risk-and-more-predictable game.

Through trial and error, I keep coming to same conclusion that the availability of capital, speed and predictability of terms are more important than rate and points.As far as deal flow for flips, that has been the problem.