Chicago Western Suburbs (Riverside, Brookfield, Berwyn area) Property Manager Recommendations

[Kasey Ryan]

Hello again Bigger Pockets community!

I have been researching for a number of months now, and have filled up on some good knowledge. I have a few different lenders in place for FHA financing and am pre-approved up to various amounts. I have a Realtor in the area I've been using. I'm looking to buy a 4 unit and live in 1.

At this point, I'd like to expand the team a little more. I'm having real trouble finding the good properties and the right prices and wrapping my head around which areas are good/bad/high demand/high employment/etc...I also find there are not a lot of available 3-4 units on the MLS and hope they could lead me towards those investors whom might entertain an offer even if the property is not on the market.

I would like a reputable property management company in that area to lead me towards the right areas/properties, get any good tips, get more leads on team members, and most importantly to manage the property (at least screening and placing tenants) once I get it. 

1) Does this sound like a step in the right direction?

2) Any recommendations on what companies and/or specific employees to go with?