Which is the most accurate in determining how well a target market is doing economically as far as number of jobs and job growth is concerned?

And there shouldn't an appraisal difference between a 4" granite backsplash vs a tile backsplash covering from the bottom of the cabinets to the countertop, since both are upgrades so go with the most economical choice. 

- how much capital do you have on the sideline to cover temporary losses- how much equity do you have and can you sell assets at a steep discount and still cash out- how much unused credit lines do you have to tide you over until you can sell assetsThe result of this exercise is that you will get a feel for your resilience to weather an economic storm.

That's not going to change your life so why put energy into it?

I am a recent graduate of Rutgers University with a B.A. in Economics and passed my NJ state exam last week.

Sounds like he will soon start to drain you of your energy and motivation and kill your spirit that you have for your career, don't let that happen!

At least then you can get a better price for the time and energy you would spend on existing home issues.  

In a economic downturn people down size.

@Jonathan GreerGet your capital together and start buying before the economic tide gets higher.

There might be other avenues to look for more economical but quality help.