That was a few thousand dollars I was not going to gamble on even if I did have a little more wiggle room left :wink: that was still there for the surprise factor....you know, "surprise, I didn't count on that needing to be fixed" Glad I passed on it, I was watching another one slowly drop in asking price.

Should I gamble?

I also think that many investors are going to be willing to gamble for those real high returns.

Eric - yes I get that gambling vision when I see the avatar....but to the question...I am also a realtor and my pic is on my card.

I love learning of others experiences of past investments and thrilled to share in success stories when it comes to Real Estate investments.

Originally posted by "keithsan":...In most cases I'll assume I can take the 20-25% from my home... ...I'd like to avoid putting the collateral on the family home but would do so...Only gamble what you are willing to have "taken from you"!

You make money on the sale, the home builders earn their money and the new owner is thrilled with their new space.

Sometimes bank statements may indicate gambling problems or other traits you might not like in a tenant.

I think the growing demographic of older Americans, empty nesters and other individuals and couples would be thrilled to not have to rent, share space, or pay larger utility bills and maintain a space larger than needed.

You state one should not invest in the stock market because you consider it gambling and too reliant on others to determine your future.