Ways to invest in a down market.

Byline: David Beart

IF you've ever dreamed about investing in real estate, now is the perfect time to make that dream come true.

It's a real buyer's market out there, with many sellers who are desperate to sell and lots of houses to choose from. Also, since the market isn't likely to turn around for some time yet, people who are uncertain about their plans for the immediate future are choosing to rent, not buy - this means there's less competition for investors who are looking to buy.

If you have the means, you can take advantage of the down market and buy a property or two at rock bottom prices. You can then rent the properties, make enough to pay your mortgage and put some extra money in your pocket each month, and then in the future when the real estate market turns around, you …