Finding off market properties

[Brendan M.]

Hi Everyone,

I have recently been looking on the MLS in Chicago for 3 unit properties to purchase. I had an offer accepted but that ended up falling through. I was wondering if anyone has had success finding off market properties through the assessor's office or through different avenues.

My hope is I can find properties that aren't necessarily for sale but that an owner would consider selling for the right price. I'm in the very preliminary stages of this idea but I was thinking searching 3 unit properties with out of state owners or something along those lines. I guess that's what yellow letters are for but I'm actually looking to live in one of these units and rent out the others.

Thoughts? Opinions?