Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate your first deal, incorporating advanced strategies, including 1031 exchanges, to attract a broader range of investors.Neighborhood Recommendations: Chicago offers a diverse range of neighborhoods for different investment goals:Wicker Park & West Town: These areas are known for their strong rental demand among young professionals and offer good potential for cash flow.Lake View: Ideal for attracting tenants who want to be close to downtown while enjoying local amenities.The Loop: A prime location for high-income renters, making it an attractive option if you’re planning to house hack and generate a steady stream of rental income.Property Types: Opt for properties that align with your investment goals.

Here's what I’m considering for each:Houston: Diverse job market and high rental demand, but property prices are rising.Midland: Potentially lower property prices, but market stability often ties to the oil industry.Oklahoma City: Affordable market with decent rental demand, but I’m curious about long-term growth potential.Pittsburgh: Growing rental demand, especially in areas like Mt.

Given our diverse economy of both commodities and tech, I think we will do fine if the world decides to go multi polar or even isolatonist. 

Your local partner can help verify if the area really supports those rents long-term.Regarding school ratings, they’re important for single-family homes but may not be as critical for duplexes, which tend to attract a more diverse renter pool (young professionals, retirees, etc.).

It has a slightly more vacation-friendly vibe with its arts scene, annual events, and outdoor activities that draw visitors regularly.Since you're targeting STR occupancy over 50% without extreme seasonal dips, you might consider neighborhoods near popular attractions, like Tulsa’s Downtown Arts District or the lake areas nearby, which offer steady, diverse visitor interest.

Indianapolis has a very stable and diverse economy, be happy to chat with you.

The city’s diverse economy and growing population create a steady stream of tenants, and the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) works well with landlords, making inspections and rent payments a smooth process.

I was told it was much more diverse and my experience has not led me to think otherwise.

The underlying fundamentals that drive returns for real estate investors are (low) supply and (high) demand, population growth, high paying jobs (ideally in diverse industries for maximum recession resistance), affordability and desirability.

As you get up and running, having a diverse range of contacts— from wholesalers to hard money lenders — means more opportunities.