The easiest way to spot a downturn is rising inventory and days in market increasing on listings. 

Learn all you can about the areas that you want to buy in so that you can spot a deal immediately.

Greg's post is spot on as always, but you are not going to get the detail you need to successfully complete this project without hiring someone.

Multis are usually 5.5- 6.3 cap (assuming not the hot spots), and many single-family homes are 4.5 cap +.

if a tenant dies in the unit you can take it out pressure wash the spot out and reinstall it .. and if A pit bull craps on the thing for a year it will clean up and blend in with the color !

@Paul B Thanks Paul, I saw this group and reserved a spot on FB it's in Westin hotel in Las Colinas.

Probably the best spot for the fridge here is at the end of cabinets on the right.

There are always new restaurants, pubs, and hangout spots that people want to work at or live close to and don't really care to commit.

If he's in a tight spot, and you can help, that's what it's all about. 

A person can always find a new agent if things aren't going well, but if doing so could damage the friendship, they're in an awkward spot.