Would it be a realistic idea to buy houses rent them out and sell them when they have increased in value?

would that be realistic way to make money if i had the money for the initial investment?

Real Estate is a great investment, just be prepared to spend some time and money being a "landlord"! Many investors keep rental properties during their working years, and sell them off in retirement. Don't expect to get rich from the rental income -- it's the equity your building that will bring you profit in the long run. As I said, be prepared to spend time and money being a landlord... repairs, vacancy, license inspections, etc. Consider a managment company, they usually deal with the headaches for a small percentage of the rents.

It may be realistic, but it can also be a royal pain in the whadyamacall. I've been more or less forced to be a landlord twice in my life because we were unable to sell a home or business for a period of time. . . and you can't imagine how much hassle it can be!

If you want to be a landlord, go ahead. But be prepared for others that won't pay the rent, tear up your property, and demand you fix things things they break.

Do yourself a favor. Take that money and put it in a mutual fund.

yes . I know a lot of people that do that. buy auctioned property if you have the cash, fix it up, rent it, and sell it.