Hi Charlie, That is a common dilemma and one I struggle with myself. We have one income property and it has treated us quite well so far.

I’ve written a few stories you might want to read as you think about getting into the income property game.

1. On the “pro real estate” side, this story highlights how a good real estate strategy can open up other oppurtunities in your life.
2. This is on the “be careful what you wish for” angle of real estate, pointing out the risk and the work involved with managing properties.
3. In this story, I discuss why ETF’s are a solid and passive investment.
4. Finally, if you have the “real estate bug” but are not sure you want to own income properties, you could always consider REITs which is (in my opinion) the only truly “passive” way to invest in real estate.

Also, if REITs intrigue you, On Monday I am publishing a beginners guide to REIT’s at 11AM EST.

Hope these articles are helpful food for thought. I’m always game to bounce ideas around.

Thanks,

Ben