They are definitely a real estate company first and foremost; after all, they do own commercial real estate on some of the most desirable street corners in the world! 

The market share will fall back as to its previous years.Most folks on the street don't know that banks or regulated lenders have regulatory examinations that are paid for by that lender, I didn't get my paycheck from tax revenues as an examiner.

Just a few quick Pros and cons I see for each in terms of REI;More Money:  Can save up for down payments/ renovations quicker and more frequently.More Time:  Easier to manage current investments / more time to search MLS and the streets for new potential deals...Any input / opinions / stories would be greatly appreciated!

Walking across the street is a bigger risk. :-)

Her unit has no off street parking and street parking during the day is limited to 2 hrs.

Ivan Boesky said in the Wall Street Journal back in 1987, "My advice to investors is the same that I give to young investors in my classes.

As previously mentioned these banks are nationwide so the connection for the bank to the streets is a BPO agent thats supposed to be local and familiar with the market .

Look out for major negatives such as long staircases to front door, no garages (at least in CA and TX) locations on major streets (or backing up to major streets with traffic noise, proximity to train tracks or under airport flight paths, no yards on hillsides can be a big negative, proximity to flood zones, proximity to commercial or industrial, lack of similar size homes in the area or having what will be a great home but surrounded or in the proximity of  crap (shacks, run down homes, small homes with just your big one, etc.).

Investors just came in and purchased the 20 unit across the street as well as a super Walmart is slated to go in 2 miles away along with 180 55+ units.  

From the inside it's perfect, from the outside it could be worse, just a white filler between the window and sill, and it doesn't face the street.