New, not sure about 1st investment, Chicago, Illinois (Elgin)

[Cody Wacura]

Hello, my name is Cody. I'm 28 years old, a graduate from Michigan State and recently moved back to Illinois, where I was born. My goal with Real Estate Investing is to get to a point where my mom can retire and live comfortably. I have been reading, researching, and absorbing as much knowledge as possible when it comes to Real Estate investing the last few months. I'm in a bit of "analysis paralysis" and finding it difficult where to focus my first investment. My mom and I sold our house back in November and have money saved to put towards an investment and going forward. Ultimately, I'm looking for general advice or ideally someone to help narrow what I should focus on for a first investment. I can only look at so many articles and posts, but it's difficult when nobody has my same specifics or is in a similar situation financially or career-wise.
I'll be going to the local investor meet up groups in my area to see if those are helpful to make connections. If there's anyone in the Chicago area (I live in Pingree Grove), I'd love to connect and discuss more. Let me buy you lunch or something, just looking to expand my limited network being new here in Illinois.

Hope your investments are going well!

Cody W.