Overall, this country is experiencing a real estate boom similar to the recent stock market boom of the late 1990's. Like the stock market boom, where companies were overvalued, communities have become overvalued as well. In fact, a CCN Money article lists 69 communities that are inflated; leading the pack is Naples, Florida at 84%. Fortunately, Nashville is actually undervalued at -1%.

Forbes magazine published a well-written article entitled Real Estate Vs. Stocks , which provides an in-depth analysis of the two investment vehicles since 1980. Their conclusion was that stocks fluctuate more than real estate but provide a greater return over time, which confirms the importance of investing in both. Besides, what other investment allows you to stay rent-free?