I think this is a great time for real estate investing. Just a lot different than a few years ago. Then "flipping" was the way to make big money, not anymore. Flipping is gone for the foreseeable future. But, with the low prices homes are selling for right now and over the foreseeable future, it is an excellent time to build for the future. Over time home prices will surely rise as there is limited amount of land/homes and the birth rate is not going to stop. More demand will mean higher prices at some time in the future. Since so many people are losing their homes to foreclosure, there will be a greater number of people looking to rent while reestablishing their credit to purchase another home. A very good excess cash flow can be generated and a better quality renter is available. Positive cash flow and rising values are all good reasons for "buying and holding". If you have the excess credit available, I would strongly suggest you become a real estate investor!!