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No, you’re right. Real Estate is hard, hard, hard! It *is* difficult to find a property that will cashflow. All of those guru’s (kiosaki, et al) make it sound much easier than it really is.

Also, consider that in a down real estate market, rental prices go up. more people waiting on the sidelines means more pressure on rentals. Trying to buy a rental property just when their income is rising is pretty hard.

Try looking at less desirable areas, but still fundamentally good. You’re looking for an income property, not a place to live. Certain ethnic populations here in california, are notorious for always paying rent promptly and in cash…even though they’re some of the poorest people in the state.

whatever you do, don’t believe the hype about making all your money from the gain in property values. That is one of the worst lies from the ‘get rich quick with real estate’ crowds. I personally know a couple people who have made it in real estate ( one commercial, one residential ) and they have *never* bought a place that did not cashflow. You are doing the right thing. it just takes longer than most people imagine.

Buster, thanks for your insight. Im postponing buying and just signed a year lease for September. My landlord said he cant make sense of properties in the areas I was looking.

His recommendation for the Boston area is Somerville and Cambridge (fewer deals in Cambridge). Im probably going to change my focus to that area and try and get a place before next september