LilBob

Sell in May and Go Away: Good Advice?

One area I'd like to add to the fray, if you're able-bodied and looking for a solid investment right now is rental property. I'm still not convinced that housing prices have bottomed out yet in all markets but if you're good at sniffing around for the sharp deals you can pick up single family homes and even duplexes at a very good price. You just have to be sharp-know what to look for when you inspect the property, get all the numbers and make sure you can cover the mortgage, taxes and a nest-egg for future repairs with realistic rental rates. Also, if you're going to get into this kind of an investment you have to keep it local and be willing to put in some sweat equity. You'll never make money in rental property if you have to hire contractors to maintain the place for you.