Detroit is definitely coming back in a slow and steady pace.

Obviously neither of us have a crystal ball, but I'm looking for a steady history of appreciation in the area as well.  

I was looking to Buy a condo and rent for steady cash flow.

It's a slow and steady grind, but been one of my best investments. 

Rental properties can provide a steady stream of rental income, which can be particularly attractive for long-term wealth building and financial stability.2.

The real win is the steady appreciation my market has experienced over the last 30+ years.

It truly depends on what your goals are as some investors purchase properties for rehab then sale and some others like myself, purchasing them for appreciation and a steady monthly income (small amount but cumulative over many years).  

However, that amount can get us 2 more "Memphis type" properties and continue us on the slow and steady curve.

But the place we live in is a large, purpose-built duplex that was originally built for a local heiress, and we rent our upstairs apartment at slightly below market value to a PhD student at Pitt and her very steady boyfriend.

At his age, and without a steady income, getting a mortgage or HELOC, seems like not a great idea.