Bottom line I like the fluctuation but would not like to see anyone lose big time in the market.

As opposed to trading short term fluctuations.

Been getting about 5% appreciation here, but it can fluctuate neighborhood to neighborhood around here.

Without knowing your strategy, it is impossible to answer your question.If you are intending to flip, then yes, the guideline formula is to buy at 70% of ARV less repairs and that guideline must fluctuate devending on specific circumstances such as, if the property's ARV is only $75k, you will likely need to buy below 70% less repairs or your profit margin will be too small for the risk and effort.If you are a buy and holder, the only thing that really matters as far as the financials is the cash flow.

If you are only invested in the hottest stocks right now like TSLA, TWTR, and FB then your portfolio will fluctuate wildly.

I would much rather have a slightly smaller but consistent return than a fluctuating 2%.You are establishing a fantastic foundation, keep up the great work fellow Floridian!

Even your capital gain rate can fluctuate given your personal situation.If you end up concluding that the 1031 is needed it is not a do it yourself or have your cpa do it kind of thing.The 1031 must be administered by a qualified intermediary who is an unrelated 3rd party to you and their only job is the 1031.  

Note: it's a very safe investment as it's not tied to the market hence not subject to market fluctuations.

Besides the regular tenant nightmare issues like tenants letting the pipes freeze due to services being disconnected for non-payment, property damages, ongoing calls about plumbing issues, and the list goes on and on and on... there are other reasons (when dealing with Section 8 tenants) that would not make it cost-effective to be an absentee landlord that doesn't bother with their tenants.There are routine inspections, repair reports, fluctuations in rent portions, and times where NHA will abate (not withhold) rent due to failed inspections.

Although his fluctuated between Oregon student housing and KC if I remember correctly.