Real Estate Investment

 There have been a load of articles about the "bubble" in real estate inventory and values in hot spots around the country.  We are on the edge of a hot spot here in the Jacksonville area.  There is such a demand here for lots that the bubble may not burst here for many months if not years.

 There may be much more to be concerned about in places where employment is not strong and there is an exodus proceeding every day.  States like Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky and West Virginia might fit in here.

 There could be an argument made that the risk of holding land in Ohio right now is greater than in holding land with inflated values in "bubble" areas.  A real estate bust is more likely to happen in the midwest than in the south, it seems to me.  There are builders now taking a beating on inventory and lots in the Columbus area, and this just may be the beginning.

 However, if oil prices recede and interest rates don't increase, it is hard to see how a bust would be very big.  But, there is reason to believe interest rates could rise, and lenders could tighten up their loans.  A little bit of this could start a stampede for the stock market?