I strongly believe the cash-flowing markets up north are going to be way less impacted by a recession than the southeast because they are based on solid fundamentals, as long as you don't overleverage you should be able to weather any cycles. 

@Ben BarrGood part about markets like yours is the strong appreciation which you can use to invest OOS.

Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.Proverbs 11:15: Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer harm, but he who hates striking hands in pledge is secure.Proverbs 17:18: One who lacks sense gives a pledge and puts up security in the presence of his neighbor.Proverbs 22:26: Be not one of those who give pledges, who put up security for debts.These say 1) don't risk too much with loans requiring collateral and 2) don't get a loan with a sketchy dude because you're going to get caught holding the bag.Romans 13:8, too:  Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.This warns against debt that incurs an outstanding obligation.

I have a strong 401k and plan to repay the loan as quickly as possible.

Contractors have a major presence in those groups and you can find great help through interacting there.

@Tom ScottFor those new, the only license that matters is a state license which would be issued through NMLS, For anyone new out there I would strongly recommend you do thorough due diligence on any program / guru that charges $30k.

The rental market is very strong here currently and I would agree with the aviation industry we are more resilient with market fluctuations.  

Hi everyone,I am planning to move to Tampa and am very strongly considering obtaining a real estate license and becoming a full time agent there or in surrounding areas such as Clearwater, St.Petersburg, or Sarasota.

Hi, My name is Byron & I’m a upcoming RE agent / Investor who is looking for more info on obtaining a strong email list of local & out of state investors (cash buyers).

The areas in proximity to the metro lines experience not only strong appreciation, but really strong rent growth as well.