I'm in my 40's, have a family, make a 6 figure income, have saved up a lot of cash and want to put it somewhere other than the stock market.

Further (if relative to stocks), the stock market increased 3000 points beyond its prior bubble peak.  

If he can wait it's a good deal for him and you aren't paying interest and principle while you are trying to fix it up. 

Had to retake principles of real estate since it combined both parts.

I do this and get most or all of my principle back with the refi.  

Thanks for sharing this article.The author has cherry picked the pieces that negatively supports his line of reasoning.Additionally, there is no guarantee that everyone who invested in stocks would see a positive return as quoted.So, it depends on the drive, plan, creativity and mindset of the individual.It's a known fact that most of the millionaires made/secured their wealth through RE and not the stock market.Looking back at the author's path to home ownership, he could have re-calibrated his steps and do creative REI investing to make himself whole.The author's story sounds like a good one to tell, generate laughter and lively conversations, but, I am not convinced with his line of reasoning about home ownership.

I would rather not issue stock but bonds could be an option for me.

Use my site as an example:[REMOVED]Total cost: Buy the domain name: $9, get web hosting: $10/mo, build the site: $5 (buying stock photos)If you are trying to get involved with SEO, backend databases, etc. then find a great company, but for more simple stuff it isn't difficult to get that going on your own if you are short on cash.Disclaimer: I am an IT guy so sometimes my version of basic is not the same as others!

In a lot of areas new development will be more expensive than existing home stock, which will probably help the home prices of the existing houses - especially if it is McMansions that are built.

I'm primarily interested in purchases as investments, maximizing ROI, and looking to take a more active role (compared to buy and holding stocks/funds) in attaining FI.I think the regional pitfalls/gotchas, and unseen costs are the biggest deterrents for newbies and over-thinkers like myself.