Most who are able to pursue real estate in place of W2 employment are able because they collect fees from an affiliate service (normally construction) or develop with a healthy pipeline where fees are built into their projects. 

It is not the end of the world and is healthy for a thriving long-term economy, much like small fires are beneficial for a thriving forest.Markets run in cycles.

As of publishing there are roughly 1150 single family listings with a healthy 300 or so pending as we enter into peak shopping season. 

Multnomah County currently has 4,959 active listings, representing a healthy jump from earlier in the year and offering more options for buyers who were previously priced out or unable to find the right fit.New listings are also up month-over-month as homeowners look to capitalize on improving weather and stabilized mortgage rates.

He could have split it in half and walked away, but money wasn't the problem and it didn't solve the problem.It's important to keep a healthy perspective.

Along the same lines, healthy contingency and interest reserves are important.  

Cash flow is necessary to cover operating expenses and maintain healthy reserves.

Lenders have expanded their guidelines to allow for up to 85% financing assuming healthy credit and income is producing above what the debt obligation would be for the home. 

Than when done cleaning up a place, they come back out and do it all over again, so that you get that final report showing all is back within healthy normalized ranges.

Even after these contributions, I still have a healthy amount of savings to purchase a second property, although it might take some time to save a 20% down payment.My current plan is to rent out my house in Virginia, which should cash flow around $150/month after property management fees.