The Personal Finance Podcast How to Invest in Real Estate (In ANY MARKET) with Dave Meyer
Mar 25, 2026
Dave Meyer, real estate data analyst and author known for macro housing analysis. He breaks down 2026 market realities, why affordability is improving, and a three-year outlook of flat real prices. He covers choosing markets by jobs and wages, when rentals beat speculation, cashflow-first underwriting, and practical ways to start investing locally or remotely.
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Great Stall Means Stability Not Crash
- The market is in a 'great stall' with low-to-no appreciation expected for the next 2–3 years.
- Affordability is slowly improving thanks to falling mortgage rates, rising wages, and more inventory, creating better deal flow.
Require Cash Flow Then Chase Total Return
- In today's market prioritize deals that at least break even on cash flow rather than relying solely on appreciation.
- Target total returns of ~12% and adjust cash-on-cash needs by location (2–3% for premium assets, 6–7% for good areas, 10–12% for weak areas).
Buying A Denver Fourplex During The Recession
- Dave bought his first Denver fourplex in 2010 during a declining market and later sold it in 2018 for a large gain.
- Early years were flat or negative on paper, but rents held and long-term regional growth produced outsized returns.
