[GianFabien]

Not in SV, not even in the USA. So my experience is probably different. Whilst I was pulling down a good salary, invested in apartments to rent out. Banks are happy to lend if you have a steady income from a job. When I reached critical mass, sold them off one by one, quit the job and living a good life. Not IC level, but zero stress.

A good income is a hedonistic trap if you spend it on booze, cars, babes and parties.

[throwaway_32u10]

Ah yes, was considering this. But (a) stupid laws with rental properties and (b) aren't tenants a pain in the ass, much bigger than your average tech team lead?

[GianFabien]

Yes, tenants can be a pain. The laws have increasingly become less investor friendly. In my experience having a good managing agents provides a valuable buffer. The real money is made when you cash out and collect the capital gains. Of course, you need to tax accountant to make sure you don't give the government most of your gains.