I agree with your comparison, but with real life data, our return on one specific property (therefore not necessarily a pattern, granted) is 13%. As to your se

I agree with your comparison, but with real life data, our return on one specific property (therefore not necessarily a pattern, granted) is 13%. As to your second observation, I look for cashflow, appreciation is just a side (but not necessary) benefit. Appreciation gains depend on selling to the market, and with a shorter timespan for the deal, is usually referred to as flipping. To me, flipping is similar to speculation. Cashflow is similar to investing in a business/going concern. The value of the business can go up or down, but the monthly payments keep showing up in my bank account. The article talked about investing, but I would rarely consider one's personal home an investment for reliable financial gain. Far too many costs involved that are not offset by income, until the final sale. And the sale _might very well_ depend on timing and other people's (market) opinion to get the most return - Not something I want to depend on. So for me, the way I invest, real estate has been a rewarding investment.