There is expansion going on at the local military installation, bringing tens of thousands more people to the area and not enough housing to meet the demand.  

The highest returns I seem to see on short term investments are investing in other peoples flips.

Anything lower than 6 would be an indicator for higher-than-normal home price appreciation in the next 6-12 months.This is why even as interest rates increased at the fastest rate in 40+ years in 2023 and have stayed at that level, home prices have continued to appreciate.The media has been calling for a real estate crash for a while now and it hasn't happened and most people can't figure out why. 

So what are some of the criteria that people look at?

The rate buydown is simply a part of your closing costs, so if you work a 2% seller concession into your contract and want to consider that the 'seller-paid buydown' then that's up to you.o Rate floor: You are going to eventually hit a rate floor with any loan program, or a point where you cannot buy the rate down any further.

Very few people have strong mind to guide people at initial juncture.The other plan is to develop the property in to Outdoor Paint Ball Arcade ??

I used to use roll on, brush on stuff, but it was hit or miss.

Real estate is a long game, and getting a good asking price when the demand isn't as competitive because most people have similar thoughts to yours - might be worthwhile to take on the investment.

I was a kid at the time.1983:  1 of the cottages got hit by lighting and burned down. 

Quote from @Cody Miller: I have been in my home for 7 years and have accumulated some equity and wouldn't mind using this to buy a rental Most people will recommend you cash out some of that equity and use it to purchase a rental.