Investing in Chicago, IL

[Tamara Berndt]

Hello! I am a new member and this is my first post. My husband, Ryan and I are traveling to Chicago, IL from 12/21-12/25. We will be touring a few distressed properties. Any other members invest in this area? Pros? Cons? We have done extensive research, we are aware that the real estate taxes in some areas are redic, we know that Chicago is on the brink of bankruptcy, and that the crime rate is high. If you invest in this area, do you have any lenders/banks you would recommend? We will be applying the BRRRR method and would like to speak to a lender prior to buying to ensure we would be able to refinance after the rehab. Do you have local contractor and/or handymen you can recommend? Property managers? Would love to meet us with other investors in the areas during this time to get your insights. We'll buy you dinner! Background: husband is a union carpenter, we've rented out a single family home for 2 year than sold it and now have some cash to reinvest. We are from Seattle, WA.