Population decline in Chicago and Illinois

[Erica Rodriguez]

Hello everyone,

I'm a newbie real estate investor in the beginning stages of saving money for a down payment on a multifamily buy and hold. I'm currently looking at the area surrounding the Garfield Park Conservatory. There are obviously issues with the area (crime, violence), but at this stage I'm looking at investing from a 40,000 view. One of my high level concerns is population decline in Chicago and Illinois. 

I'm trying to remain optimistic that the population decline is a good thing because it may increase the chance of finding a good deal. However, the cynic in me says that state corruption and tax increases is going to continue to drive people to move out.

Any insights on what this means for investors?