There are other areas of investment which is more dynamic than real estate, espectially rural estates. Returns are also higher, but then the high risks are accounted for. For investment properties, you would have to wait a long while before it reaches a decent price to sell. Renting would be ok...
Also, you probably would know, but according to statistics, more than 70% of jobs are filled internally, or by word of mouth. Pretty much all of the good jobs are NOT advertised. Networking is essential for a healthy career in IT.