If there is any way you can swing it, now is the time to buy a retirement home or invest your money in low-priced rental properties. Older Boomers are fortunate to have this window of opportunity, which is an ironic benefit of the Great Recession.

Outstanding buys on retirement homes can still be found in southern California, Arizona, Nevada and Florida. Baby Boomers can now afford a larger, nicer home in a better location than was possible just five or six years ago. And in many cases, sellers are open to carry-back financing. Plus, banks and other lenders have huge inventories of foreclosed homes that will hit the market this year. So, if you have been delaying making a purchase decision, now is the time to take action.

Why not just rent instead of buying? That may be a good strategy for many Boomers, depending on the location. However, because so many people have suffered financial setbacks and cannot qualify to purchase a home, rental demand is soaring and rates are going up, up, up. Those fortunate to to buy a home with minimal down payment can lock in their "rent" at a fixed price, usually enjoying monthly payments considerably lower than local rental rates. And 50+ Boomers quickly grow to understand that retirement is all about monthly cash flow.

That is why investing in rental property is a great idea now. When you can generate monthly passive income with a high return on investment, it sure beats the 1/2 to one percent return seen today on CDs! And rental demand is only going to increase in the future as the social fabric of home ownership is revamped. Going forward, there will likely be fewer homeowners and more renters.

2012 is the year for older Boomers to take advantage of the real estate opportunities that will abound this year. You can still "make lemonade out of lemons." Need some free advice or help in finding a good Realtor in your target location? Let us know - we would be glad to help.