Id never take debt to buy stocks or any other volatile asset that I have no control over.

Bonds are more stable, consistent, you know what you're going to get vs stocks which are a little more volatile, but offer a higher return.

I think a lot of investors are drawn to real estate as a safer and less volatile place to park their money than other markets. 

The individual crypto-currencies seem too volatile for me, but I am interested in the blockchain technology.

But historically slowdowns have always come after stock market crashes and so nowadays if the stock market crashes I will sit on the sidelines (and that's when I'll wholesale all my good deals) until the volatility evens out.

I believe that the consistent cash flow rental properties 'can' provide is one of the best hedges against the volatility of the stock market, and is the single most reliable way to ensure income into retirement.I actually work full time as a Regulatory Specialist / Environmental Compliance Manager for a large chemical manufacturer based in Maryland.

Make sure there is more than one established industry that is creating jobs and be wary of areas that rely heavily on industries that are volatile by nature and cycle through booms and busts regularly.

How much volatility are you comfortable with?

These have historically more similar to bonds than real estate (and produced higher returns with less volatility than bonds).

Their advice will not cost you any money.The Houston market is pretty volatile right now....I suspect you can find some good deals at present.