Surveyor’s style is the “thinking man’s way” and probably what appeals to most Piggington’s. I haven’t heard mention of any blood, sweat and tear techniques…Improving the rental capacity/productivity of properties(which in theory also compliments any appreciation). Being that the cost of doing these things is rediculous and our region is still overpriced , San Diego is not currently a good candidate for this. However in time it will be. It is a much a fundamental as the rent vs buy and wage to price relationships. In the past people have done well with this style even when paying for all or most of the labor. I won’t guarantee this is going to happen again, because SD might defy the fundametals that existed pre-boom(I learned to add that from Rich,LOL).Anyone intending to do this surveyors, way or the blue collar way, in the market they live in really would do themselves a huge favor by getting a RE license.

A third and easiest way to become and investor for first time buyers is to time the market and buy much less than you can afford with an eye for it being a good rental property in the future, live in it until the numbers crunch and buy another. Your’s truly did this and so have a few of my friends. I really recommend this to young people who are not huge income earners or who don’t want to work forever, yet want a good start on a balanced portfolio. If you know , or want to learn rehab/construction work that is an added plus.