New Real Estate Investor in the Chicagoland area!

[Rick Zavala]

Hey Everyone! Excited to join the Bigger Pockets community! I first became interested in real estate investing when I worked for a bank that financed residential new construction and renovation projects. I am based out of the southwest suburbs of Chicago. I plan to invest in or near this area. I'd like to purchase my first investment property in 2024. I'm currently working on getting information on financing options. House hacking is not an option but I have good equity in my primary residence so I'm looking into HELOC options. Any financing suggestions are greatly appreciated as I'm just getting started. I've also been considering starting an LLC but not sure how to go about building credit for the LLC and if it's even necessary to start.

Looking forward to all responses, especially suggestions and questions.  

Rick