How did you weather the '08 downturn?

[Justin Young]

History doesn't repeat itself, but it does often rhymes.  As a result I'm curious about your experiences during the 08 crash.

Not looking for opinions, or when you think the next downturn will happen. I'm only looking for stories of people who were investing around the 08 crash and your experiences, things you learned and lessons you can impart.

Please tell us your story.

[Stephen J Davis]

This may sound weird but I love a recession. I can't wait for another. You have to think like this because it is not if, it is when it is going to happen again. In 2008 I had no problems at all with my houses. Sure, the value dropped dramatically but I didn't care. My rents went up. Yes, my cash flow went up. Then I started buying everything that I could get may hands on because everything was so cheap. Down payments went down to zero on many of them with hard money loans. Anyone who worries about a down turn is probably a speculator and not an investor. A competent, educated investor makes money in both the up and down market. You almost always make more money in the downturn.