Any info on the trend of downtown St Pete? 

After thinking about it and talking it over with my wife, we feel a 15 small house "community" would best meet the need for this, tap into the "small" trend, and keep utility expenses low to maximize profits.

However, in a flat or downward trending market, these are tough sales.

Which would have you looking at absorption rates, economic growth trends, median income etc... - Value add opportunities ALWAYS have some sort of challenge.

Not get rich quick by any means, but a solid plan to gain financial freedom that is proven to work.2) I like biz journals, city data forums,  and demographic sites to stay up to date with trends and business development news in my area.

Maybe we can identify a beginning trend of exponential growth.

Usually means prices are trending up rather than flat or declining.

And if you are having trouble finding housing that is a positive for me because you may stay in my property longer.Other considerations: prefer non-smoker, how long you have lived in the area (deeper roots/ties to an area are a positive), income compared to rent, how long you have held current job, how stable your overall job history is (changing jobs yearly is not a great trend), how long you have lived at previous addresses (frequent moving/turnover costs landlords money), what Facebook profile says about you (pets, drama, responsible, crazy), what prior landlords say about you, etc.It's a shame that some lessons in life are so painful, but hopefully it ultimately leads to you being stronger and better for it.

south west metro is trending.

Obviously, I cannot change what your history (or anyone else's history) has been, but we are definitely bucking the trends.