In Springfield, MO our cost per sq/ft is extremely low compared to other markets and a lot of outside investors are starting to come to the area and buy up multi-family which is driving the price up.

For example, 300K in Springfield MO could buy a new construction duplex that is a 3/2 per side.

Hello, my husband and I are currently renting but are wanting to purchase a duplex to do house hacking and are curious if there are any suggestions for mortgage lenders in the Springfield, IL area that work well with first time investors?

I'd recommend searching for one in either Springfield, IL or Peoria, IL (both seem equidistance to Mason City based on me taking a peak at Google Maps).

A group of us have started doing a meet-up in Springfield.

I would add a couple more in there as well, Springfield, Lowell, Lawerence, Hoyloke as big ones. 

@Sean HanniganI never would have thought any investor would have a problem with a tenant in Springfield.

I was looking to purchase in Westfield or maybe Springfield, but from what I've seen Springfield can be tough depending on area.

@Mack Bailey good opportunity in your area for sure I'm living/investing in Enfield and may start soon in Springfield MA as I also work up there.

I'm a newly licensed broker in the Springfield IL area looking for some advice on picking the right brokerage.