This gives me more flexibility and ability to ride out volatilities should that become necessary.Also, sounds like your formula for finding good homes in GOOD solid school districts is right on target.  

If inflation is outpacing your costs vs income, often we will have to ride that out and except lower returns for a period until the market shifts.

While the ride might be bumpy at first, there is no better way to understand the nuances of investing than just jumping in. 

Let's ride! 

I lost everything in 08 and I have a full time job now riding around all day inspecting homes for a hedge fund.

Sometimes when we're busy I take some calls and it's like riding a bike.I'm sure someday that skill will translate over to REI when I get more comfortable.

You can have metals,cash... but what good does that do if you live in a big town and the local grocery store is empty do to a system collapse.If someone was concerned about a turbulent economic ride, then I would vote cash as I would think that what has happened lately would serve as a guide and thus make for great buying opportunities.

Try Boggy Creak airboat rides for swamps and gators.

Why should some folks get a FREE RIDE while others went through the proper channels?

Having a contract signed by an elderly person with no representation or other party to represent their interests seems like a free ride to jail.