Real estate as an investment

I have been a Realtor in Miami for about twelve years, and an investor in real estate for about 20 years or so. In the early years I bought real estate because I wanted to own it. I had no purpose or thought other than I wanted to own real estate. As my knowledge grew, through taking courses and designations I began to look at real estate in a whole different way. Real estate is an amazing investment vehicle. I am not saying not to invest in stocks you have to diversify and hold stocks, liquid assets such as cash and bonds. I call this opportunity capital. If a really good deal comes by you are in a position to act. I have been amazed at how many real estate agents don't invest in the business they specialize in. In real estate you make your money when you buy! You take your profits when you sell. Know your goals when you buy real estate and have a purpose. Your goals and your purpose will determine the type of loan you will acquire the property with. I am not a flipper so I don't  know much about that, I am a long term thinker so I buy and hold. I love the tax advantages. Not paying taxes is the same as making money! I also like to buy land, this is usually for personal use (I hope at a future point in time) The problem with land is that it does not in my context pay for itself, so I will ususally buy outright and just pay the taxes. Always paramount is location. I set a goal to buy a property every two years but with a purpose and long range planning. Oh, I should mention my background in construction, in the early days I was a Union finish carpenter, and I hold a state general contractors license (inactive) so I have good working knowlege, kind of like a super handyman. My favorite house to buy is one with solid bones in a great neighborhood, that is dead original. Yeah, you know this house, pink shag carpet, pink drapes, ugly cabinets. LOL Nobody wants to buy this house, a jewel in the rough. I don't know a lot about blogging so if someone wants to help out; I welcome the advice and tips. Help!!