There are many ways to get creative in this industry, the example provided is merely one strategy that has been successful for some of my clients this past year looking to house hack.

Yes, people in the industry that really know will see this as the cheaper option but it doesn't mean it's not a great option for tenants.

By design, the nursing industry is predominately women - women who often travel to new cities alone.

How can I assess the area as a good place to buy (good appreciation, developing, population/industry growth), before I buy?

In 2008, the fed and govt had to bail out the banks and automotive industry .

Since imitation is the highest form of flattery, I’d start with finding people in other industries that you admire.

@Joe Kooner When I say “refine goals”, I mean things like variety of industries in a market, employment drivers, city size, etc.

Go into any of the work trailers at the industrial complex in my town and you'll see calendars of scantily clad women with my advertising and phone number on it. 

I've been playing parallel to the real estate industry for years in that I have built my own interior design business for 10+ yrs and 'flipped' each of the homes I've lived in.

@Kristina XieMetro Detroit (my rental portfolio is here)Purchase: $80k-$130kRent: $1200-$1450ROI: Double DigitCash flow: $200-$350/month Appreciation: Double digit (for past 10 years, will gladly send data)Location: C, B- (suburbs and certain markets)We have over a dozen Fortune 500 companies just in Metro Detroit with huge Healthcare and Auto industries.