Out of curiosity went to a new home sale event, where the builder was opening Phase 1 of the development. To my astonishment, the visiting folks bid up the available lots to about 3 times the opening price. Walked away from the event found an older track home for less than half the builder sale price. Had no prior landlord experience and after convincing SO, took the plunge with a promise if it did not work out… we can always sell the house. Now laziness, lack of alternatives and tax benefits has kept us with the investment.