So I was hoping someone else could benefit from having the big pieces like couches and beds, nice TVs, etc. 

Starting with a smaller property or a few fix-and-flip projects can help you build equity, gain credibility with lenders, and better understand the process before scaling up.Securing funding for larger projects can be challenging without prior experience, but options like hard money loans might be worth exploring.

I am about to buy my first property in Ohio and I would like to gain as much information as I can in regards to the different legal issues of which I can face in Ohio.

To gain investor confidence, ensure the investment property numbers are real, use the most common contract forms in your state (versus a 2 or 3-page) internet/guru contract form) with appropriate addenda, or an attorney-drafted form and attorney-drafted assignment agreement.

Just a few tips to look into but it usually takes some time to gain steam on your first listing so be patient and keep analyzing the local compeition /your own listing. 

Make sure this enough gains to make it worth worrying about.

So the initial appraisal for the refinance was good at the time, but now the As-Is is not gaining traction with buyers.

By working for a larger corporation you are gaining an unfair advantage, by letting them train and develop you (while you are getting paid) and you do real estate on the side.This idea is not from me, read RichDad. 

Many of them use RE crowdfunding platforms to gain more exposure.  

The challenges in real estate teach you invaluable lessons that you might not gain otherwise.I also invest in Chicago, so I have a few thoughts in response to the questions you raised.