I'll add some more food for thought:1) What if the rust belt does not appreciate?

But don't insight violence to the same people that will surely give you food and water for free if you are in dire need.

And right now being first of September already, you're a squirrel that just realized you have no food for winter.

(cab fare)  milk was and still is $9.00 a gallon here. gas $4.99  fortunately 3 of the duffel bags had ramen noodles and dog food in them. im in process to buy unit 9. 

I plan on getting a few credit cards here soon for expenses like gas and food.

Evaluating the resale value of the homes individually is another proposition altogether.Hope that gave some food for thought!

My small dog costs me around $100 per month, for grooming, food, vet care, treats, etc.

I like @Bill F. comments  punctuality is really important in the real estate game.. and great communication skills.no one likes dealing with someone that takes 3 days to get back to them or wont answer their phone and hides behind text messaging.. we are in the communication age ( instant) learn that.One last pearl one of my business partners was quite accomplished ( president of Stauffer foods) president of Beringer wines in Napa.. ( that's were we met member of the same country club.. )But as we did business together over the years..

Core CPI (CPI with Food & Energy prices stripped) is still on an uptick.Also agreed on your mentor's comments re: how to scale.

Inflation is more dangerous, because it squeezes household budgets silently until they break down under the debt load, but even then food and shelter remain the core.