We are betting that downtown prices will expand to that major street.

I think @Jay Hinrichs touches on the important point... if you can reasonably expect appreciation, then it might be a good bet/gamble. 

If you have cash to buy a place I bet there are some good deals to be had.

I would recommend you connect with @Tim Swierczek, he can help you get your finances figured out so you can purchase a place.I would say your best bet is to graduate college and get a job in your field. 

Your best bet is to consult with a lawyer in your state (and perhaps in the state you're going to operate in if you're going to be investing out-of-state) to help you work through the options and find what will best meet your objectives.I wish you the best of luck in your journey!

I bet a contractor could look at a parcel of vacant land and tell you  how much it would cost to build whatever. 

As for recession, the economy is diversifying, UNLV is expanding, sports teams are moving there, etc so there's a lot going on.  

Nanaimo and Port Alberni are going to be your best bet for affordability. 

@Ashel Fernando Mckees Rocks is probably your best bet for getting a quality property in that price range.

We're in one of the healthiest markets our nation has ever seen so a company that is losing money is not a good bet.