I've just been avoiding the big markets and concentrating on small niche markets with a diversified employment portfolio and growth trends. 

I currently work for a nonprofit operating a public program managing the acquisition, rehab, and disposition of 25 single family homes a year.While my current and previous employment taught me a great deal about the single family market and rehab, I am interested learning about private sector real-estate investing and financial tools.My goal is to have my own single-family development company within the next 2 years, and am serious and driven about this goal.I'm interested in learning from this site, and from all of you:)Michael-

But his employment contract in the USA will end in 2 months and we will lose an opportunity for a mortgage. 

Your job is to employ systems to separate you from those who are tempted. 

Hubby is self employed contractor.  

I am not sure what factors to evaluate on my own, and the buzz about the market (which I don't fully understand) makes me worry I should move now since I am not long term in the current old employer account.Thanks! 

You might want to have some confirmation regarding criminal records, drug offenses and sexual offenses of the occupants - you might accept the employer's checking of this but reserve the right to perform your own for verification purposes. 

We are new and excited about the next journey in our lives.Right now its all about Education, Education and Education!!!!Loving Bigger pockets

Having said that, for me part of the pleasure of being self-employed and somewhat successful financially is the ability to help people who are truly in need by being a bit flexible as circumstances warrant. 

We aim to partner with existing community based entities to staff our company with employment candidates from within disadvantaged areas and backgrounds and source our materials from companies within these zones as well.