Over the last few years the U.S. apartment market achieved notable success in a struggling economy. With the addition of “Echo Boomers” entering the workforce, the apartment sector looks to continue the positive market trend in the future. These were some of the observations shared by guests on a recent episode of the national talk radio station, the “Commercial Real Estate Show.” Occupancy rates, future development locations and rent growth were a few of the market topics discussed.

Some people believe there is retirement gold in buying a piece of property, finding a renter and collecting income while the tenant pays off the mortgage.

If you're willing to take the plunge, rental properties offer a rare opportunity to generate extra cash in post-work life. Indeed, a well-located unit in a middle-class neighborhood can produce an extra $200 to $1,000 per month after expenses.